As we enter the last academic term before
the summer, The Schoolwear Association, whose members clothe three-quarters of
Britain’s children, is urging parents to purchase uniforms for the next school
year early to avoid the annual back-to-school panic.
By late August each year, schools and specialist
schoolwear suppliers are inundated with last minute uniform requests, which can
result in a more time consuming experience for parents, if they are unable to
source specific sizes or styles so close to the start of the new school year.
According to the Schoolwear Association,
the three main reasons why parents leave it to the last minute to shop for
school uniform are:
·
The arrival of the holidays means school
drops off the radar
·
Leaving it to near the start of the school
year to see if the child’s size changes
·
Families want to put off the expense
David Burgess, Chairman of the Schoolwear
Association, said: “All these approaches are false economy and will end up
costing parent’s time and money. It makes sense to buy early to avoid the rush
and to ensure that there aren't any last-minute problems. If there are any
special requirements, this will give suppliers time to resolve them, meaning
you’re not faced with extra expense or stress.”
“Taking the time now to choose a
specialist schoolwear supplier will offer real benefits if you are willing to
pay a little extra for a premium product and service. We understand that price
is important but a uniform that is made well does the job better and offers
better value because it lasts longer,” added Burgess.
The Schoolwear Association represents
British businesses involved in the manufacture and supply of school-specific
uniform, from manufacturers to wholesalers and independent retailers.
Established in 2006, the association is run on an entirely voluntary basis by some
of the sector’s most experienced professionals.