Rebranding can be an exciting shift for any business. A fresh identity, new messaging and updated visuals can breathe life into an established company. But businesses often overlook a key security risk that comes with rebranding: old uniforms and branded workwear. Without careful handling, these items can be exploited by criminals, posing a risk to your business, your staff, your customers and the general public. In some instances, they would even pose a risk to national security.
In this article, we’ll explore the hidden risks associated with rebranding, real-life cases of uniform misuse, and best practices to protect your brand from unexpected threats.
Why Are Outdated Uniforms a Security Risk?
When a business rebrands, uniforms and branded workwear are typically replaced to reflect the new look. However, these old items of clothing don’t just disappear – they need to be securely disposed of and ideally, sustainably recycled.
Without secure disposal processes in place, clothing that identifies the worker with your company or organisation can potentially fall into the wrong hands, where they may be used for malicious or criminal purposes.
Despite your rebrand, they still carry a level of trust and authority. To an unsuspecting public, someone in a recognisable uniform may gain access to private locations, secure areas, or even personal information. The risk grows with each uniform left unchecked, opening the door to crimes including fraud, impersonation and theft. As we will show, they can even be used to commit murder.
Real Examples of Uniform Misuse
Criminals have capitalised on old uniforms and branded items in surprising ways. Below are some recent examples where impersonators used discarded or stolen uniforms to commit crimes, showing the real risks businesses face.
Impersonation and Theft
In Canada, a man dressed in a FedEx uniform managed to bypass suspicions, showing how much weight a uniform carries in terms of trust and access. His disguise helped him commit crimes under the assumption that he was a legitimate worker, revealing how unmonitored uniforms can have serious consequences.
For further details about this incident, read “No one suspected the man in a FedEx uniform”.
Impersonating Police Officers
In the UK, a duo was recently jailed for impersonating police officers to defraud victims of over £400,000. By appearing as figures of authority, they gained trust and access they otherwise wouldn’t have, showcasing how vital it is to manage outdated uniforms with caution
For further details about this incident, read “Duo jailed for impersonating police officers to defraud victims of over £400,000”.
Utility Worker Disguise Leads to Violent Crime
In the US, criminals dressed as utility workers to gain access to homes under the guise of needing entry for maintenance. This disturbing example reveals how individuals can easily exploit uniforms that signal trust and professionalism, using them to enter private homes with harmful intent.
For further details about this incident, read “Second suspect arrested after two people allegedly pretended to be utility workers to kill a man in his home”.
Best Practices for Minimising Rebranding Risks
1. Conduct a Thorough Inventory
After a rebrand, conduct a complete inventory of all uniforms and branded workwear to ensure none go unaccounted. This inventory should also be expanded to include passes, badges and any other items that identify the holder as a representative of your company or organisation if these are to be replaced with rebranded versions. Even a few misplaced items can lead to security risks if they end up outside company control.
2. Partner with a Trusted Disposal Service
Work with a secure disposal and recycling service to handle old uniforms. For instance, EE partnered with Avena Group to recycle outdated workwear, ensuring a secure transition without waste piling up (we cover this later as a case study). A trusted disposal partner can track and verify the destruction of these items, giving businesses peace of mind.
3. Educate Staff on Security Risks
Employees should understand the risks associated with outdated uniforms. Train your team on proper procedures for returning old workwear and equipment, making it clear that these items should never be given away or sold.
Case Study: EE and Avena Group’s Partnership for Secure Uniform Recycling
When EE rebranded, they partnered with Avena Group to securely recycle their uniforms. This collaboration ensured that outdated items were disposed of responsibly and securely, protecting the brand from potential misuse. EE’s commitment to safe recycling is a model approach for any business undergoing rebranding.
By working with a partner like Avena Group, EE could confidently maintain brand security while adhering to environmentally responsible practices. For any business facing the need to discard old uniforms, secure recycling options like those offered by Avena are invaluable in mitigating rebranding risks.
For the full case study, read “EE Partners with Avena to Recycle Uniform”.
Secure Your Brand with Avena Group
If your business is preparing for a rebrand, don’t leave security to chance!
Contact Avena Group today to discuss safe, effective disposal and recycling solutions for your old uniforms and workwear. With our expertise, you can safeguard your brand, reputation and team while transitioning to your new corporate image.
