Swiss Post up close
This year, all staff at Swiss Post branches were given a new look. Using original fabrics from the familiar shirts and blouses, Swiss Post threaded them together to create a new stamp.
The work clothing worn by employees in branches is closely interwoven with Swiss Post’s image. For more than 20 years, these outfits have consisted of a yellow shirt or blouse, a grey jacket or blazer, grey trousers or a grey skirt, and a scarf or tie. Over the course of these more than two decades, Swiss Post has seen a lot of change: branches have been gradually modernized and staff have taken on new responsibilities. “Given these changes, it was time to give the clothing a fresh look and match it to the present needs of employees and management,” explains Gregor Huber, project manager for the new clothing at Swiss Post.
Yellow remains as accent colour
The new outfits boast a contemporary design in neutral and timeless basic colours, such as grey, and the Avio shade of blue. The yellow accents embody the traditional elements of Swiss Post. To ensure that the new collection would stand the test of day to day work, staff were involved in the design process from the outset. “A diverse working group made up of employees from all over Switzerland provided feedback on the sketches and prototypes, giving them a say in choosing the design. We wanted to make sure that the clothing was practical, comfortable to wear, and would be accepted,” explains Huber. One big strength of the new collection is that although it conveys a consistent image, it also allows for a certain degree of individu- ality, for example, by giving a choice of different blouse styles. Cornelia von Siebenthal, customer advisor at the Sihlpost branch in Zurich, was one of around 180 staff working at branches given the opportunity to put the new clothing to the test before it went into mass production. Her conclusion: “I not only find the clothing really comfortable, it’s also very easy to care for. And the positive reactions from our customers make wearing it that much more enjoyable.”
A piece of Swiss Post
As a tribute to the yellow shirts and blouses previously worn by staff, Swiss Post is issuing a stamp made out of leftover material from the old uniforms. Another idea that resonates with von Siebenthal: “I think it’s a brilliant approach. It’s creative and shows how upcycling can give old textiles a new lease of life.” Huber is also pleased with this special recycling solution: “The stamp made from the original clothing is an original collector’s item and memento a piece of Swiss Post history.”
Stamp style check
The stamp made from the original clothing is complemented by anthracite coloured elements. The colour is based on the blazer worn with the shirts and blouses, and the serrated edge refers to the traditional zigzag scissors used for cutting fabric.
