2025 WINNERS

Winner: Fabric

Member: Affinity
Program: Air Tech Polyester Stretch

Affinity developed the Air Tech Polyester Stretch fabric exclusively for McDonald’s uniforms, blending modern style with advanced functionality. Inspired by the rise of athleisure and technical fabrics, this innovation offers the durability needed for corporate wear with the breathability and flexibility of sportswear. The fabric’s perforated design enhances airflow, while its natural stretch—achieved without elastane—ensures comfort, long-lasting performance, and recyclability. Wear trials with McDonald’s managers confirmed its success, earning praise for its professional look, softness, and wrinkle resistance. Designed to perform in demanding environments, Air Tech Polyester Stretch elevates workplace apparel by combining technical innovation with sustainable design, meeting the needs of both employees and the brand.

Winner: Sustainability

Member: Arrow Uniforms
Program: AROUND® Uniform Recycling Programme

Arrow Uniforms’ AROUND® Recycling Program sets a new standard for circular textile waste reduction in New Zealand and Australia. Developed in-house, AROUND® is a closed-loop recycling initiative that repurposes end-of-use uniforms into functional products like signage, insulation, boxing bags, and gym mats. Unlike third-party recycling services, Arrow controls the entire process—from collection to transformation—ensuring transparency and accountability. Every uniform is sorted, weighed, and reported back to clients with emissions data, allowing them to measure their sustainability impact. Since launch, AROUND® has recycled 17.5 tonnes of uniforms, targeting 50 tonnes by 2026. With 28 clients already participating, Arrow aims to grow that number to 200 by 2025. AROUND® proves sustainability and profitability can coexist, turning waste into valuable products while driving environmental and community impact.

Winner: Safety

Member: Australian Defence Apparel
Program: ENFORCR® H.A.L.O.

The ENFORCR® H.A.L.O. ballistic carrier redefines protection and performance for law enforcement. Developed by Australian Defence Apparel, this Highly Adaptable, Load Optimised system offers three customizable configurations, allowing officers to tailor fit, function, and protection to each mission. Lightweight and low-profile, the design prioritizes mobility without sacrificing safety. Advanced microclimate-regulating padding uses phase-change materials and 3D fabrics to control temperature and moisture, reducing fatigue and cognitive strain during long hours in the field. A vertical and horizontal MOLLE system ensures seamless gear access and organization. Every detail of H.A.L.O. stems from field research, officer input, and rigorous testing. The result is a modular, high-performance carrier that adapts to environmental challenges, maximizes endurance, and enhances officer focus—protection that performs as hard as those who wear it.

Winner: Digital Service

Member: Bodd Technologies
Program: United Airlines

Bodd Technologies revolutionized United Airlines’ uniform rollout by digitally sizing over 60,000 employees across 26 global locations. Supporting Brooks Brothers, Bodd’s 3D body scanning technology replaced traditional fittings, delivering personalized sizing recommendations in under a minute per person. The portable, collapsible scanners captured full-body data—head to feet—improving accuracy, fit, and consistency while drastically reducing time and staffing demands. Flight attendants, customer service reps, and pilots benefited from efficient, private scans that eliminated the need for extensive tailoring. This innovation is now integrated into United’s uniform rooms for new hires, streamlining future onboarding. Built from years of R&D with Bosch and academic partners, Bodd’s system optimizes fit, reduces waste, and enhances employee experience. The result: better efficiency, superior fit, and a first-of-its-kind global sizing solution.

Winner: Garment Function

Member: Fechheimer
Program: LITVEST

The LIT Safety Vest delivers a groundbreaking approach to officer visibility and safety. Its patented non-overlay LED system illuminates the wearer's face and surroundings, enhancing visibility far beyond standard hi-vis vests. A touch dimmer switch allows light adjustment up to 594 lumens. Designed for duty, it includes a low-cut zipper for body cam access, dual mic tabs, and a storage bag that doubles as a vehicle headrest. Developed by an active officer after a line-of-duty tragedy, LITVEST is now deployed in police and fire departments for traffic and night operations—praised for improving visibility and officer safety in the field.

Winner: Garment Function

Member: Fechheimer
Program: Power Flex

Power Flex is an innovative all-way stretch knit uniform fabric designed to meet the daily demands of law enforcement. Unlike traditional woven fabrics, Power Flex stretches in every direction, delivering unmatched mobility, breathability, and comfort. The fabric features moisture-wicking, anti-static, and wrinkle-resistant technology, reducing maintenance and keeping officers looking sharp. Independent lab testing confirmed performance, and over 500 uniforms were field-tested by departments nationwide. Officers praised the uniform for its comfort, breathability, and durability—especially in harsh environments like Arizona’s extreme heat. Power Flex blends Class A appearance with Class B comfort, setting a new standard for functional police uniforms.

Winner: Decoration

Member: FiberLok Technologies, Inc.
Program: LumoTex®

LumoTex® is a patented decoration technology designed and manufactured by FiberLok Technologies, Inc. It combines dye-sublimated textile with glass bead reflective film, creating a unique mixed-media emblem that enhances visibility and elevates branding. During the day, full-color designs maintain sharp detail, while at night, the reflective layer provides safety with brightness exceeding ANSI 107 standards. FiberLok engineered LumoTex for versatility, offering multiple backings including heat transfer, hook-and-loop, and adhesive, making it ideal for uniforms, headwear, and outerwear. LumoTex is wash-tested to 50 home cycles and available with EcoTwill®, FiberLok’s 100% recycled polyester base. Proudly manufactured in the USA and certified to Oeko-Tex Standard 100 Class 1, LumoTex offers a durable, sustainable, and eye-catching solution for the uniform industry.

Winner: Safety

Member: Hunter Apparel Solutions Limited
Program: FLEXGUARD®

Hunter Apparel Solutions designed and manufactures FLEXGUARD®, a revolutionary blunt-trauma armor exoskeleton that redefines limb protection for public order officers. Tested to BS 7971-4 Level 2, FLEXGUARD® surpasses global safety standards with zero cut-through in blade resistance and outstanding shock absorption. Engineered using advanced CAD and flame-retardant materials, it offers unmatched flexibility and removable inserts for biosecurity. Unlike outdated, bulky gear, FLEXGUARD® features exoskeleton mechanical hinges for superior mobility while protecting vulnerable joint areas. Developed with direct input from police, prison, and military professionals and guided by experienced instructors, the system solves real-world challenges. UK-manufactured, it reduces reliance on overseas supply chains and lowers lifetime costs. Agencies report overwhelming satisfaction, calling FLEXGUARD® a game-changer for frontline safety and performance.

Winner: Sustainability

Member: Kariwala Industries Limited
Program: Digital Product Passports

Kariwala Industries developed NFC-enabled Digital Product Passports (DPPs) to advance sustainability, product transparency, and circular economy goals. Embedded with secure NFC tags, each product carries its complete lifecycle data, accessible instantly through a smartphone tap. The system offers verified information on materials, manufacturing, environmental impact, and end-of-life options, enhancing consumer trust and supporting regulatory compliance like the EU’s Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation. Designed with user-friendly functionality, the DPP also deters counterfeiting and improves supply chain visibility. Extensive research, consumer feedback, and industry consultations shaped this innovation, prioritizing data security and seamless interaction. Still emerging, DPPs present major potential for market differentiation, encouraging responsible consumption while providing brands with valuable lifecycle insights. This technology exemplifies innovation in sustainable apparel and workwear.

Winner: Garment Function

Member: LION
Program: HeroCert Cover Pants

LION developed the HeroCert Cover Pants to give emergency responders fast, reliable protection without sacrificing mobility or comfort. Built from a single layer of fire-retardant fabric and certified to NFPA 1977, this cover pant offers turnout-level strength in a lighter, more versatile design. Features like padded knees, gusseted crotch, angled fly, and adjustable leg closures enhance fit and functionality during critical moments. Cargo pockets are strategically placed for easy access, even in fast-moving situations. Designed through extensive wear testing and end-user input, the HeroCert Cover Pants bridge the gap between durable turnout gear and functional EMT uniforms. It allows first responders to tackle emergencies without risking damage to costly gear, ensuring safety, comfort, and practicality in the field.

Winner: Sustainability

Member: Monterey Textiles
Program: ECO-FYRE

Monterey Textiles developed ECO-FYRE, an innovative recycled aramid fabric designed for the gas and oil industry. This sustainable solution tackles the growing problem of uniform waste sent to landfills by recycling soiled garments back into fiber form. Blended with virgin aramids, the fabric delivers superior flash fire protection, color fastness, and comfort while supporting environmental responsibility. Extensive lab testing and wear trials confirmed the fabric’s performance in harsh conditions without sacrificing safety or durability. ECO-FYRE offers a closed-loop recycling model that reduces manufacturing waste, minimizes environmental impact, and supports companies focused on sustainability—delivering both protection for workers and meaningful progress for the planet.

Winner: Decoration

Member: Penn Emblem Company
Program: Woven Billy Strings Goddess Art

Penn Emblem Company’s woven Billy Strings Goddess Art emblem showcases the precision and versatility of their PennWeave® technology. Created for the Grammy-winning bluegrass artist’s tour, this woven piece captures complex gradients, intricate detail, and vibrant color impossible to achieve with traditional embroidery. The emblem features smooth, flat aesthetics with the ability to incorporate cut-outs, providing depth and dimension. Penn Emblem also offers pairing options with other decoration techniques like glitter or dye sublimation for added impact. The client praised the quality and uniqueness of each design, continuing to reorder for the tour. This woven emblem series elevates merchandise branding by combining art, storytelling, and technical expertise into a standout visual product.

Winner: Footwear

Member: Rocky Brands
Program: Rocky Wildlands 77

Rocky Brands created the Rocky Wildlands 77 boot to meet the demands of firefighters battling remote forest fires. This design merges side-stitch construction for enhanced durability with a jungle lug outsole that delivers solid traction on rugged terrain. Lightweight and flexible, the boot reduces fatigue during long treks while carrying heavy gear. Extensive research into wildland fire environments, firefighter gear, and direct user feedback informed adjustments that reduced weight without compromising stability. Early customer reviews praise comfort and break-in ease, with comparisons to top brands like Haix. One user noted, “Out of the box they are super comfortable and need almost no break-in time... these are my new favorite boots.” The Rocky Wildlands 77 delivers mission-ready performance while raising the standard in wildland footwear.

Winner: Badges

Member: Smith & Warren
Program: Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) 25th Anniversary Badge

Smith & Warren created a truly unique commemorative badge for the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission’s 25th anniversary. Designed through the company’s BadgeStudio service, the badge showcases Florida’s diverse wildlife with sculpted images of a deer, jumping sea trout, tail kite swallow, rising sun, ocean, cabbage palms, and cattails. The design merges FWC’s traditional eagle-over-circle badge into a six-point star, symbolizing their legacy and future. Precision manufacturing techniques brought the design to life, with multi-color enamels, two-tone finishes, and high-relief sculpting. The badge balances artistry, storytelling, and structural durability, earning praise from FWC leadership and officers as a striking emblem of their conservation mission and law enforcement authority.

Winner: Technology

Member: Unisync Group Limited
Program: Mobile App

Unisync Group’s Mobile App revolutionizes uniform program management by providing users real-time access to their personalized uniform account anytime, anywhere. Designed for large, complex programs, the app simplifies the ordering process, allowing users to view entitlements, manage points or allowances, track order history, and receive shipment updates. Built with user feedback, the app delivers intuitive navigation and functionality optimized for mobile devices. By integrating biometric login and push notifications, Unisync ensures a secure, efficient, and responsive experience. The app improves end-user satisfaction, enhances program compliance, and streamlines operations—delivering a first-in-class digital service that sets a new standard for uniform management.