The Uniformer

Rick Levine (Executive Director, Network Association of Uniform Manufacturers & Distributors), Leslie Wale, and Aileen Out swap two fresh stories each and react—from North America and Europe—on what’s shaping uniforms, workwear, and public safety apparel. Topics we cover: Pricing in 2025–2026: tariffs, inflation, catalog timing, and why service—not product—wins when goods feel like commodities...

In this lively roundtable episode of The Uniformer News, NAUMD Executive Director Rick Levine is joined by columnists Leslie Watt-McArdle and Eileen Out for a global look at today’s hottest uniform and workwear topics. Together, they dive into: Accusations of copycat airline uniforms in Asia The blurred line between design inspiration and duplication The direct sale vs. rental uniform debate and w...

In this episode of The Uniformer News Roundtable, Rick Levine is joined by columnists Eileen Out and Leslie McArdle to unpack six unique stories shaping the world of uniforms and workwear. From a U.S. fire department's shift to PFAS-free turnout gear, to the fashion-forward wrist warmers of Air Greenland, to the ongoing global push for properly fitting women’s PPE—this episode has it all. The trio...

In this inaugural News Roundtable episode of The Uniformer, host Rick Levine is joined by NAUMD columnists Aileen Out (Netherlands) and Leslie Watt McArdle (USA) for a dynamic, unscripted conversation exploring the latest stories shaping the world of uniforms and workwear. Topics include: The military’s surprising influence on everyday fashion Why women’s pockets are still smaller — and the histor...

In this essential episode of The Uniformer, host Rick Levine, Executive Director of NAUMD, sits down with Bruce Calder, VP of Consulting at Claigan Environmental, to unpack the growing concerns and confusion around PFAS in uniforms and protective apparel. With new state-level regulations cropping up across North America—and inventory at risk of becoming unsellable—understanding what PFAS actually...

In this episode of The Uniformer, host Rick Levine speaks with Eric Rubin, President of Blue Generation, who shares his unique perspective from decades of leadership in the apparel and promotional products industry. Eric reflects on the company’s evolution, from its roots in uniform manufacturing to becoming a standout brand known for its unmatched color selection, size inclusivity, and vertically...

In this episode of The Uniformer, Rick Levine sits down with Aileen Out, writer, speaker, and influencer behind prettybusinessworld.com. Based in the Netherlands, Aileen has become a global voice in the world of workwear and corporate fashion, with a passion for uncovering the stories behind uniforms. Aileen shares how she transitioned from government work to launching one of the only platforms de...

In this insightful episode of The Uniformer, host Rick Levine chats with Anles Cabrera, Group International Marketing Manager at Carrington Textiles. Anles provides a behind-the-scenes look at Carrington's global operations, with production facilities in the UK, Portugal, and Pakistan, and a strong focus on serving markets worldwide, including North America. The discussion covers Carrington's stra...

In this engaging episode of The Uniformer, Jose Gomez, President and CEO of Edwards Garment, sits down with host Rick Levine, Executive Director of NAUMD, for an in-depth conversation about his journey in the uniform industry and the transformation of Edwards Garment under his leadership. Jose, who has been with Edwards for over 13 years, shares how his experience in supply chain management evolve...

In this episode of The Uniformer, host Rick Levine, Executive Director of the Network Association of Uniform Manufacturers and Distributors (NAUMD), sits down with Michael Lowery, President of Sales for North America at Motives International. Michael shares his extensive experience in the global uniform and workwear manufacturing industry, highlighting the challenges and opportunities of sourcing...

In this episode of The Uniformer podcast, Rick Levine, Executive Director of NAUMD, sits down with Randy Carr, CEO of World Emblem, to explore the dynamics of leading a global company in the emblem and uniform industry. Randy shares insights into his role as CEO, managing a team across multiple locations, and the importance of systematic strategies to keep the business on track. He delves into the...

Join us on this enlightening episode of The Uniformer as we sit down with Kate Annett-Hitchcock, Professor Emerita at the Department of Textile and Apparel Technology and Management, Wilson College of Textiles. In this conversation, Kate shares her expertise on the critical role of adaptive apparel in ensuring inclusivity within the workforce, particularly for individuals with disabilities. She ex...

In this episode of The Uniformer, Rick Levine, Executive Director of NAUMD, sits down with Richard (Rich) Hirsh, National Sales Manager at Penn Emblem. They delve into the intricacies of the uniform industry, particularly focusing on Penn Emblem's distinct operations. Rich explains his multifaceted role, which includes generating sales, training new salespeople, and managing a five-member sales te...

In this captivating episode of "The Uniformer," we sit down with Simon Hunter, CEO of Hunter Apparel Solutions, for an insightful conversation that delves deep into the heart of the uniform, image apparel, and workwear industry. Hosted by Rick Levine, executive director of the Network Association of Uniform Manufacturers and Distributors (NAUMD), this episode explores the rich history, innovative...

Join us in this engaging episode of The Uniformer as host Rick Levine, president of the NAUMD, sits down with Scott Corrao, the dynamic president of Reflective Apparel. Scott shares his journey from the safety industry to leading a company at the forefront of high-visibility and reflective workwear. He delves into the multifaceted role of a president in a smaller organization, highlighting the imp...

In this episode of The Uniformer, host Rick Levine, Executive Director of the NAUMD, engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Anil Kariwala, CEO of Kariwala Industries. Anil shares his unique perspective on leadership, emphasizing the importance of being a coach rather than just an executive. He delves into his innovative approach to business, highlighting the 'three C's' - Coach, Connect,...

In this enlightening episode of The Uniformer, host Rick Levine engages in a comprehensive discussion with Rossella De Angelis from Klopman International, a leading European textile company. Rossella, with her extensive experience in communication and marketing, delves into the significance of circular economy and sustainability in the textile industry. Key Highlights: Circular Economy Focus: Klop...

Dive into the world of specialized leather accessories for the uniform industry in this captivating episode of The Uniformer, featuring TJ Valentino from Boston Leather. Broadcasting from their impressive facility in Sterling, Illinois, TJ unveils the art and dedication behind creating top-notch leather products designed for public safety, postal, and industrial sectors. The episode is hosted by J...

Jeff Mergy is the Vice President of Product Strategy, Partnerships, and Innovation for Bold Metrics. The company has a mission to change the way the world’s most innovative brands design, produce, and sell apparel. This talk with host Jeff Mason presents creative thoughts around how we as manufacturers and distributors can better approach sizing, garment production, inventory management, sustainab...

Join eCommerce Director for Military at Galls, John Arquette, and Josh Sandhaus, Vice President of Operations at US Patriot Tactical (a Galls Company). Both John and Josh, military veterans themselves, embarked on the US Patriot Bravery Tour this summer. Spanning 90 days, these Galls executives and a number of other team members covered 25 military bases and journeyed an impressive 6,500 miles. Th...

Mark Smith is the President of LION Americas, which serves the personal protective equipment, uniform and logistics needs for fire departments and law enforcement agencies, emergency services and military markets. In this episode we talk about how the needs of these first responders have evolved, as well as where innovation will come from in the coming years. Mark stresses the importance LION plac...

Rhiannon McMahan is the Sales and Operations Manager at Midsouth Solutions. She is a passionate leader driving herself and her team with a "can and will do" attitude. Together with host Jeff Mason, they discuss specific ways Midsouth is recruiting and retaining employees which allows them to be fully staffed. The pair talk about the growing importance of technology in driving business and customer...

Charles Wang is the Chief Operating Officer for Winnitex. He has an extensive background in workwear textiles and apparel manufacturing. The company has factories in China, Vietnam, and Central America, making their service attractive to North American workwear brands. For example, Winnitex helps solve the problems of sourcing cotton and other materials from different regions, making consistency d...

Jeff Mason is the owner of North59, LLC, a sales and marketing agency representing various public safety and outdoor brands. He has worked at Oxford Industries and Propper International. Over his career, he has also developed a well-respected approach to the customer experience. His company SimpleBiz360 has a mission is to assist companies with identifying and implementing simple business principl...

Enzo Cancellieri is the Vice President at GAME Sportswear & Workwear. He is an experienced and passionate executive of workwear, outerwear, and safety apparel. Together with host Jeff Mason, the conversation dives into customer service and thoughts on accommodating the needs of long-time customers. Game is adept at understanding the importance of listening and responding to both the market and cus...