Taylor Made Designs (TMD), a creator of uniforms and workwear for leading visitor attractions, theme parks, zoos, aquariums, and museums across the United Kingdom and Europe, has partnered with Chester Zoo, the top-rated zoo in the UK and internationally acclaimed conservation charity.
The zoo sought a uniform partner that would reflect its global mission to protect threatened species and empower people to live more sustainably.
As such, it required a blend of 100% sustainable materials and off-the-shelf materials, with a circular end-of-use solution for its previous uniform.
Inclusive, brand-accurate & sustainable
The Chester Zoo team cares for over 30,000 animals across 130 acres and multiple departments. It needed a custom, sustainable uniform option that would better align with its distinctive brand identity.
Key requirements included an inclusive approach with a unisex fit and an industry-leading size range from XXS to 8XL that would support its diverse workforce.
Uniforms had to match the organisation's branding precisely. Despite being made from different materials, all components, including zips, buttons, and pulls, needed to exactly match the Pantone colour of the embroidered logo.
A sustainable approach was also vital, using almost 100% recycled polyester and a comprehensive end-of-use solution for managing the recycling and reuse of existing uniforms.
This was achieved through TMD's collaborative approach: "we believe every successful project begins by listening, discussing, and collaborating," says a spokesperson from the company.
"We worked closely with the Chester Zoo team to refine styles and develop Pantone lab dips for brand-accurate colour matching.
"To ensure the highest quality, pre-production samples were sent for every item, including bespoke polo tops. When a challenge arose regarding colour-matching the waterproof jacket accessories, we successfully sourced specific matching components to meet the zoo’s exacting standards."
The result is a 'Caringly Responsible' uniform range that balances high-performance functionality with environmental ethics. This includes unisex polos, fleeces, and weather-ready anoraks in a palette of yellow, sage, and dark green that reflects the zoo's natural landscape.
TMD launched a dedicated e-store with 20 departments, enabling line managers to approve specific orders. It also designed and delivered bespoke recycling bins and managed the collection of used uniforms. Those items suitable for reuse were laundered, while the rest were processed through TMD's zero-landfill recycling initiative.
The new uniform was rolled out in July 2024. For three days, TMD staff provided onsite support, managing distribution and sizing checks.
"While internal client discussions led to the final jacket being an 'off-the-shelf' Regatta 3-in-1, the core bespoke elements, such as the 100% recycled polos, were a resounding success," says the company.
By considering every element, from vegan footwear to circular recycling, TMD demonstrated a dedication to conservation that matched that of the zoo itself.
Recently, TMD provided a managed uniform solution for British cruise operator Ambassador Cruise Line, outfitting every crew member on board a new ship from bow to stern.
