At ICO, we built our business on a straightforward promise: reliable uniform programs that deliver consistent quality, on time, and at a fair price. That promise remains unchanged. What has changed is the complexity of delivering on it.
Over the last year, shifting trade policies and tariff structures have created unprecedented volatility for mid-sized manufacturers like us. To this point, we've absorbed hundreds of thousands of dollars in unexpected costs because we believe in honoring our commitments to our clients.
Here's the challenge: We price most programs 6–12 months in advance, often under multi-year agreements, while our production lead times run 4–8 months. This means we're committing to prices long before we know our actual landed costs. When tariffs shift midstream—as they have repeatedly—we face a direct hit to our margins.
We've worked hard to shield our clients from these impacts. But our business model wasn't designed to indefinitely absorb cost increases of 10%, 20%, or even 30%. Sustainability requires us to have honest conversations about pricing adjustments moving forward.
We understand our clients face similar pressures. You set budgets and pricing well in advance, often with equally thin margins. We've always aimed to be more than a supplier—we strive to be a true strategic partner. That partnership is exactly why these conversations matter so much.
Why not just manufacture everything domestically?
We're actively pursuing that path. In 2022, we acquired a 40+ year-old domestic uniform manufacturer and have since expanded our U.S. capabilities significantly. Today we operate a full design, development, sample-making, and laser-cutting facility in New Jersey. Our largest 2025 order was proudly produced here in the U.S.—a meaningful milestone for our team and clients.
The reality, however, is that domestic manufacturing capacity remains limited and cost-prohibitive at the scale and price points our clients require to stay competitive. We continue investing in U.S. production wherever feasible, but it's not a complete solution to current market dynamics.
The most challenging aspect of this environment is how it's shifted our focus. Instead of dedicating our energy primarily to growth, innovation, and creative client solutions, we're now spending significant time on:
These activities are necessary and responsible, but they're not where we create our greatest value. Our best work happens when we're helping clients strengthen their brands, elevate their teams, and create exceptional guest experiences.
We're still doing that work every day—but we want to do more of it.
We're not seeking sympathy, nor are we making excuses. We deliver products that influence first impressions, shape team culture, and reinforce brand identity in industries where every detail counts. That responsibility drives us every day.
We will continue working to maintain pricing stability and absorb costs where possible. But we also believe in transparency and partnership. This moment calls for open dialogue and collaborative problem-solving as we all navigate an increasingly complex landscape.
Our commitment remains unchanged: building a business that's durable, transparent, and designed to serve you well for years to come.
Thank you for your continued trust and partnership.