What Aramark Uniform Services does

Aramark Uniform Services is a company that rents, cleans, and delivers uniforms to businesses rather than selling them outright. You don't own the uniforms — Aramark owns them, maintains them, and replaces worn items as part of the service. The company handles washing, pressing, and delivery on a regular schedule, usually weekly or bi-weekly depending on your agreement.

This model works differently from buying uniforms from a uniform store. Instead of purchasing inventory upfront and managing laundry yourself, you pay a recurring fee and Aramark handles the logistics. The company serves restaurants, healthcare facilities, manufacturing plants, warehouses, and other industries where employees wear branded or standardized clothing daily.

Aramark also offers related services like mat and towel rental, work wear programs, and specialty garment cleaning. The uniform rental piece is their core business for most small and mid-sized employers.

Key Takeaways

  • Aramark owns and maintains the uniforms; you pay a monthly or per-garment fee for the rental, cleaning, and delivery service.
  • You need a minimum order (the threshold varies by location and uniform type) and typically sign a contract for one to three years.
  • Uniforms are delivered and picked up on a set schedule, usually weekly, and Aramark replaces damaged or worn items at no extra charge.
  • The total cost depends on the number of employees, uniform style, delivery frequency, and your location.
  • You can contact Aramark directly for a quote, or ask your current uniform supplier whether they partner with Aramark for rental services.

How the rental and delivery process works

When you sign up with Aramark, you choose the uniform style, quantity, and delivery schedule. Aramark delivers the initial set of clean uniforms to your location. On your scheduled pickup day — often the same day or next day — a driver collects the dirty uniforms and leaves fresh ones in their place.

The uniforms go back to an Aramark facility where they are sorted, washed, inspected, and pressed. Any garment that is torn, stained beyond repair, or worn thin is removed from rotation and replaced. This cycle repeats on your delivery schedule, so your employees always have clean uniforms ready.

If an employee leaves or you need to adjust the number of uniforms, you contact Aramark to modify the order. You return any excess uniforms at the next pickup, and your invoice adjusts accordingly. Most contracts allow you to scale up or down within certain limits without penalty.

Pricing and contract terms

Aramark charges in different ways depending on the program. Some customers pay a flat monthly fee per employee; others pay per garment per week. A typical arrangement might be $8 to $15 per employee per week for a basic uniform rental, though this varies widely based on uniform complexity, fabric, embroidery, and your location.

Minimum orders usually start at 5 to 10 employees, though some locations accept smaller groups. Contracts typically run one to three years. Early termination fees may explore if you exit before the contract ends, so read the terms carefully before signing.

Delivery fees are sometimes included in the base price and sometimes charged separately. Ask Aramark whether your location qualifies for free delivery or if there is a per-stop charge. Volume discounts may be available if you have multiple locations or a large employee base.

What uniforms Aramark offers

Aramark stocks uniforms for specific industries. Healthcare facilities typically rent scrubs, lab coats, and medical jackets. Restaurants and hospitality businesses rent chef coats, aprons, server shirts, and pants. Manufacturing and warehouse operations rent work shirts, pants, and safety-rated garments.

You can usually choose from standard colors and styles within each category, and many programs allow embroidery with your company logo or employee name. Custom designs are possible but typically require a higher minimum order and longer lead time.

Aramark also offers specialty items like flame-resistant uniforms for certain industries, high-visibility clothing, and seasonal adjustments. If your industry has specific safety or compliance requirements, mention them when you request a quote — Aramark can recommend garments that meet those standards.

Comparing Aramark rental to buying uniforms outright

Renting uniforms through Aramark means you avoid the upfront cost of purchasing inventory. You also don't manage laundry, which saves time and labor. Damaged uniforms are replaced at no extra cost, and you always have clean garments on hand.

The trade-off is that you pay a recurring fee indefinitely, whereas buying uniforms is a one-time expense. Over many years, rental can cost more than purchase. However, rental is often cheaper in the short term and better for businesses with high turnover, seasonal staffing changes, or strict cleanliness standards.

If your employees work in environments where uniforms get heavily soiled, torn, or stained regularly — kitchens, hospitals, factories — rental usually makes financial sense. If uniforms are worn occasionally or in a clean office setting, buying may be more economical.

How to contact Aramark and request a quote

You can reach Aramark through their main website or by calling their customer service line. Have ready the number of employees who need uniforms, the industry or job type, your location, and your preferred delivery frequency. Aramark will ask about any special requirements like embroidery, safety ratings, or color preferences.

A representative will provide a quote based on your specifications and discuss contract terms. Some locations offer a trial period or a small initial order so you can test the service before committing to a full contract.

If you already work with a uniform supplier or distributor, ask whether they partner with Aramark or can refer you. Some suppliers handle Aramark orders on behalf of their customers, which can simplify the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if a uniform gets damaged or lost?

Normal wear and tear — fading, small holes, seam separation — is covered by Aramark and the garment is replaced. If an employee loses a uniform or damages it severely through misuse, you may be charged a replacement fee. The contract specifies what counts as normal wear versus customer responsibility.

Can I cancel the contract early?

Most contracts allow cancellation, but early termination fees explore. The fee amount depends on how much time remains on the contract. Read the cancellation clause before signing so you understand the cost if your business needs change.

How long does it take to set up service?

Once you sign the contract and pay any setup fees, Aramark typically delivers your first uniform set within one to two weeks. The exact timeline depends on your location and whether custom embroidery is needed.

Do I need to provide storage space for uniforms?

Yes, you need a find, clean area to store uniforms between delivery and employee pickup, and to stage dirty uniforms for the next pickup. Most businesses use a locker, cabinet, or designated shelf. Aramark can advise on storage best practices during setup.

What if I need uniforms for a temporary event or seasonal staff?

Aramark offers short-term rental programs for temporary needs, though pricing may be higher than long-term contracts. Contact them to discuss your timeline and they can recommend the best option.