We produce practical workwear for PostNord, which demands a lot in terms of functionality. It’s a flexible uniform suited to all weather conditions and seasons, with functional materials for the inner layer which keeps you warm and dry, while the middle layer provides insulation and the outer layer protects against rain, wind, and snow.
With a desire to continue developing workwear that combines style, functionality, and sustainability, the collaboration between Postnord and Ted Bernhardtz was once again renewed in 2023. The result is a new collection of workwear where the focus remains on function.
Postnord
With functionality in focusDesigned for visibility and comfort
The collaboration between Postnord and Ted Bernhardtz began as a response to complex needs. Postnord operates across several Nordic countries and requires its workwear to have colours that are visible and garments that are comfortable. These requirements were especially important to those working on the roads and in traffic. Furthermore, the collaboration aimed to modernise the collection and strengthen its connection to the brand. PostNord conducted a comprehensive survey in order to satisfy wishes and views at all levels. The results of this survey led to several improvements such as better comfort, mobility, and fit. Björn Ödman, Sales Manager at Ted Bernhardtz, explains how the survey was applied in the development of the collection. – One of the clearest examples is the development of the trousers, as we incorporated stretch panels where stretch was needed. With an elastic waist, improved fit, and customised waist height, it’s almost become a completely new design of trousers, says Björn.
A clear identity
The new collection includes a coral colour which complements Postnord’s classic blue. This was a deliberate choice to meet the goals of improving visibility while connecting the workwear to the Postnord brand, where the colour plays a key role. Mårten Ericson, Business Developer at Postnord, shares more about the colour’s debut in the collection. – The inclusion of the new colour was a natural choice for us since it was already part of our colour palette. This uniform will be used in all markets where PostNord operates – it will be ‘Truly Nordic’. The coral colour is also a practical addition, as it serves as high-visibility clothing in the Nordic countries, where it's a necessity, says Mårten.
“The Ted Bernhardtz team has supported us with knowledge on how to improve comfort, how to work with brand placement, and technical expertise in textiles, among other things.”
– Mårten Ericson, Business Developer at Postnord.
A responsive collaboration
Ted Bernhardtz’s Sales Manager Björn Ödman explains that several factors have played a role in the development of the collaboration.
– The collection has always been of high quality. We wanted to further develop the collection to meet the current needs of employees in terms of comfort, while also meeting Postnord’s requirements for branding, sustainability, the environment, quality, and overall cost. Wearer trials were conducted to ensure that the comfort requirements were met.
In respect of the development process, we work closely with our own factories and have chosen to retain the elements that have worked well. In other cases, we switched to more environmentally friendly cotton, for example. Our manufacturers have a high level of certification and are meticulous in ensuring a more sustainable manufacturing process. We’re working constantly to minimise material waste and consumption, says Björn.
Postnord’s Business Developer Mårten Ericson concludes that the collaboration has been good.
– What we value in a collection is primarily comfort and good functionality, combined with a strong representation of the brand and easy maintenance for our employees, which helps to ensure that their workwear remains clean and complete.
The Ted Bernhardtz team has supported us with knowledge on how to improve comfort, how to work with brand placement, and technical expertise in textiles, among other things. They’ve also been very attentive to our requirements and actively sought feedback to weave design and material suggestions together in a way that keeps us satisfied, says Mårten.