The run-up to Christmas is a busy time for many businesses, and extra seasonal or temporary staff are common in warehouses, retail, hospitality and delivery. They need to look part of the team and have any protective kit their role requires from day one, but you also do not want to spend a fortune on kit that will only be worn for a few weeks.
Decide what is essential
Split kit into two groups. Protective equipment is anything your risk assessment says the role needs, such as hi-vis, safety footwear or gloves. Branded clothing is what makes people look part of the team. Where PPE is required, employers generally must provide it free of charge, and in Great Britain this duty was extended in 2022 to cover many casual and temporary workers. Check how the rules apply to your staff and any agency arrangements. See workwear vs PPE: who pays?
Keep branded kit simple
- One hero garment. A branded t-shirt, polo or sweatshirt is often enough. See polos & tees and hoodies & sweatshirts.
- A visible layer. For warehouses, yards and deliveries, a branded hi-vis vest worn over everyday clothing can be the simplest option if your assessment calls for hi-vis. See hi-vis workwear.
- Something warm. Winter peaks are cold, especially in loading bays. See gilets and our winter layering guide.
Sizing without the guesswork
Temporary staff are often hired at short notice, so you may not have their sizes in advance. Holding a small stock of branded garments across common sizes lets you hand kit out on the first shift. Our sizing guide and women's fit guide help you choose a sensible spread.
Think about after the season
Some seasonal staff stay on, and garments that match your permanent uniform make that easy. Kit that comes back can often be laundered and kept for next year, and our guide to disposing of old branded workwear covers the rest. For onboarding, see our new starter workwear checklist and our warehouse & logistics workwear.
The short version
Provide the protective kit the role needs, keep branded clothing to one or two simple garments, hold stock in common sizes and order early. Your seasonal team will look the part from their first shift.
