Being a supplier to the uniform industry means more than just making or selling uniforms.  NAUMD members come from all segments of business, including technology.  We recently spoke with two NAUMD newcomers, Allen Mendel, Jonar Systems, and Thomas Gladtke, Applied DNA Sciences, to learn more about their products and impact on the uniform industry.  A brief company profile, and the interviews, appears below:

Jonar Systems Inc.

Canadian-based Jonar Systems has provided software solutions to North American customers for the last 25 years, with application programs tailored to the manufacturing, importing and distribution sectors of the apparel industry.  Jonar offers a fully integrated Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system to effectively run a company’s entire business.  The system is user friendly, with powerful and easy-to-use inquiries and browse screens.  While external, third-party software is not required, the Jonar system also works seamlessly with other Microsoft products.  

UMN:  Are there specific market segments in which you specialize?  Who in the industry currently uses your products? 

The bulk of our clients are in the apparel industry; domestic and off-shore manufacturers, distributors, and/or importers.  We have customers who manufacture, import and distribute sports uniforms, service industry uniforms, hazmat suits, surgical gowns, image apparel, work wear, etc.

On the manufacturing side, we have clients that are totally vertical (i.e. they start from yarn, manufacture the fabrics and cut and sew finished garments).  We handle other segments of the sewn goods industry as well, in products like home textiles, shoes, leather goods, luggage, hand bags, and nap sacks.    

UMN:  Are the problems in the uniform industry different from those in the general apparel marketplace?  What types of solutions do you offer uniform customers?  

We see an opportunity for greater automation in the inventory, pick & pack, importing and shipping areas, depending on your client base and the type of uniform that you supply.  Forecasting, replenishment, and comprehensive sales analysis also contribute to “improving your bottom line.” 

Similar to the general apparel market place, there is a change in the traditional “customer relationship” model, with wholesalers seeing their customers become their competition.  End use customers are going to the primary supplier whether that be importing direct from overseas or going to a domestic manufacture.  

UMN:  The “bottom line,” is, of course important to all business.  Briefly explain how your products help companies remain competitive. 

One of the many things that our experience has taught us is that no two customers are the same.  Because we treat each customer as unique, we will analyze an operation and offer suggestions to improve production/shipping flow….saving you time, money, penalties, etc.  

Our reputation and success is based on this approach: We do not ask a client to fit the application software.  We tailor the package to the customer.  If we can’t make your business more profitable than you don’t need us.  Your world is razor thin margins and tight deliveries.  Jonar’s software answers those needs. 

UMN:  How so?  Can you give us an example? 

We have customized our standard system for a bio-hazard uniform manufacturer selling across North America who serializes each of their garments.  Tracking within the manufacturing plant and paying by piecework are regular and common functions.  

This manufacturer has unique requirements.  For instance, in their manufacturing process certain seams are fused instead of sewn.  Fusing is recorded, by garment, for temperature and dwell time.  There is garment traceability back to the fabric, the manufacturing operators, and all the manufacturing operations.  This information is critical due to potential health hazards.  The garments are logged by customer when they ship.  Tracking is accomplished thru RFID and/or permanent barcodes.  Garments must be able to withstand autoclave sterilization (250° F steam cleaning).  The bio-hazard uniform manufacturer’s customers can request information on a garment at any time. 

UMN:  Which are some of the more popular product features?    

PDM, web-based ordering and communication with customers and suppliers have been well received by customers, as have forecasting (raw material and finished goods), Electronic Customer Orders and PO’s, Consignments, Multi-warehousing and bin locations, Email alerts, Links to Shipping Companies. 

The Jonar software includes an internal manual, and the company also provides on-site training once the product is installed.  Jonar offers unlimited telephone support, and encourages customers to call whenever they need to refresh on any product feature.  An annual insurance fee covers unlimited support and updates throughout the year, with no additional surprise charges along the way.

To learn more, visit www.jonar.com

Applied DNA Sciences

Applied DNA Sciences delivers counterfeit protection, brand authentication, and combats product diversion using the proven forensic power of DNA.  With DNA-based markings that cannot be copied or detected by the naked eye, Applied DNA Sciences has partnered with numerous companies and agencies who seek to thwart counterfeiting, protect brand integrity, and most importantly, assure public health and safety.  

UMN:  How big of a problem is counterfeiting?

Counterfeiting is one of the fastest growing financial crimes, threatening jobs and endangering public health and safety. In 2004, the World Customs Organization estimated annual global trade in illegitimate goods at about $600 billion, and that number is expected to double to $1.2 trillion by 2014, representing 5% to 7% of all worldwide trade.

UMN:  I understand how this type of technology can be valuable in the consumer market, but how useful is it to the uniform industry?

Just think about the current security risks at airports around the U.S.  Right now, you could easily duplicate the uniforms worn by TSA agents, for example, and it would go undetected.  Incorporating this technology into these uniforms could help divert a 9/11-like catastrophe. 

We also see potential for use of this technology in the law enforcement, fire service and military market segments.    

UMN: In laymen’s terms, how does this work?   

The DNA is derived from a botanical plant; a molecular mark is generated, broken down, and coded so that it cannot be copied.  The DNA is developed into a liquid which is incorporated during the manufacturing process, used to mark any part of a uniform - marking the complete outfit would be cost prohibitive.  We can mark the yarn, a button hole, or label.  We can even mark the ink that is used in camouflage uniforms, or the thread that is used on boots.  These markings can be easily scanned to ensure authenticity.

UMN:  Does the process interfere with any performance feature that might be added to the garment?    

No, it will not compromise any wicking, anti-static, anti-stain, or other properties that may be incorporated into the garment.  The technology, does, however, have some limitations.  If there’s too much heat during the finishing process, you’ll lose the DNA.  To counter this, we mark the piece after manufacturing with a type of spray or fog that is invisible to the eye.

UMN:  How has the industry responded?

We’re currently doing a number of pilot programs for customers throughout North-America, and a number of feasibility studies to ensure the technology works for the garments intended.  We also have developments efforts in the UK and Europe.

To learn more, visit www.adnas.com