Chefwear firm switches production line to hospital scrubs

A Manchester chefwear manufacturer is helping in the national effort by making hospital scrubs for the NHS.

Since 1979, Tibard have been designing and manufacturing uniforms for the hospitality industry.

Their clothing can be found across the world, from Cartmel to Singapore.

The firm is based in Dukinfield in Tameside with a factory that manufactures chef jackets, trousers, hats and aprons.

The closure of bars and restaurants has had a massive effect on the hospitality industry.

As a result Tibard’s customers stopped spending on uniforms.

The announcement left the firm’s purpose built textile factory without work.

Tibard’s managing director  Ian Mitchell, wanted to offer their services to the NHS.

Through one of their local fabric partners, Tibard were able to contact the NHS Supply Chain and take on any surplus orders that they required immediately.

The production line did not need to be altered significantly as chef jackets and trousers are similar in construction to medical scrubs.

The only key difference being the fabric involved, which is lighter weight, and the garments not requiring a front fastening.

Tibard is now manufacturing 10,000 scrub tops and 10,000 scrub trousers to be sent to healthcare staff across the country.

Ian Mitchell said: “We found ourselves in a rather odd position last week, with our customers not wanting clothing because their establishments were shut but at the same time we kept hearing how the NHS needed more equipment to help tackle this pandemic.

“It was important to all of us here at Tibard to do our part to support our medical staff and that’s why we had to offer our services.”

“Businesses across the country should be analysing their function within society. Our NHS is on the front line fighting this dreadful virus and it is up to businesses to do their part in whatever way they can.”