It had been a long, hard road to get this business underway. I had overcome adversity in the form of financial difficulties, from getting the right financial backing to haggling over lease agreements and counting the pennies when it came to staff salaries and internal decorating. Cutting corners on workwear seemed wholly appropriate for a new business to save money.

I had faced my own anxieties over family life too. Do I work for someone else and leave the responsibilities at the shop at 5pm to go home and concentrate on the family? Or do I take the bull by the horns and invest in my own business, following my heart with a career that I have always wanted to map out for myself?

My own despondency has also come into play along the way. My friends and family have rallied round, all helping me with this project leaving me yo-yoing between awe for their kindness and guilt over accepting it.

Anyway, there we were. All problems overcome, all equipment in place, all staff briefed and smiling. The doors were officially opened by a minor local celebrity, champagne served and I was more than happy with the interest the local community had shown in the latest local eatery to open in their neighbourhood.

Despite the initial interest, business rumbled along on a so-so basis for several months and I began to worry. I took a few days out, spending my time visiting other restaurants in the area, to see if I could spot where mine was lacking. Calling over a waitress one afternoon, inspiration came along with my meal.

I went back to my own treasured establishment and as soon as I walked through the door I could see what it was. Or rather, i couldn't see it! Thinking I would create a relaxed working atmosphere for my staff thus bringing about a happier working environment was more an excuse to save money on uniforms and workwear. And it was definetly counter-productive.

I couldn't spot a waitress and I knew who they were! They just looked like the customers. The lack of positive response from the public in recent weeks was also taking its toll on the general working atmosphere. I tried the kitchen. No way to differentiate between head chef, kitchen porter or even myself as business manager.

I decided I needed to invest in some uniforms. Chef's whites and safety footwear were soon delivered along with proper waiters and waitresses workwear as well as a little treat of smart business clothing for myself.

This is just what we needed. Everybodys knows where they belong as well as the public being able to identify the necessary staff. Morale has improved. Determination to produce excellent service has been boosted, my staff look happy and shiny and business is booming!

Expert businessman Shaun Parker looks into the impact of appropriate workwear on business. To find out more please visit http://www.matrixuniforms.co.uk/

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