Choosing a Uniform Supplier: FAQ from Rugby Union Clubs

Selecting the right uniform supplier is one of the most important decisions your rugby club will make before the start of a new season. The quality, reliability, and service you receive can have a big impact on your players, volunteers, and sponsors.

To help community rugby union clubs across Queensland and Northern NSW make confident choices, we’ve put together answers to some of the most common questions clubs ask when choosing a new uniform supplier.

1. What should we look for in a rugby union uniform supplier?

When choosing a supplier, focus on companies with experience in rugby-specific apparel. Rugby uniforms must be made from durable fabrics with reinforced stitching, and provide a comfortable fit for all playing positions. Look for suppliers who can show examples of previous club partnerships and offer design expertise. It’s also a bonus if they have local representatives in Queensland or Northern NSW who can assist directly with orders and samples.

2. How can we be sure the uniforms will last the season?

Durability is essential for a contact sport like rugby union. Ask about the fabric composition, printing methods, and testing standards used by the supplier. High-quality sublimation printing ensures colours and logos don’t peel or fade. Your supplier should also be able to offer you several different fabric options.  Many leading suppliers also use reinforced seams and stretch panels for better performance and longevity, critical for clubs wanting value over multiple seasons. 

3. How long do rugby uniforms take to produce and deliver?

Most suppliers require around 6 weeks from final design approval to delivery, depending on the time of year. Busy pre-season periods (especially December to March) can cause delays, so it’s best to start the process in the off-season, which is also a time that many supplier offer pre-season price discounts. Ask your supplier for a clear production timeline, including milestones for design, approval, and shipping.

4. Can we customise our design with sponsors and unique club colours?

Absolutely. Community rugby clubs rely on sponsorship, and uniform design plays a big role in recognising those partners.  Your supplier should always provide you with digital mock-ups to show how logos and colours appear on the final product, and for you to approve before any production starts.  Custom designs allow for sponsor placement on jerseys, shorts, and training tops, as well as giving your club a unique and professional look.

5. How can we manage uniform orders across multiple teams?

For clubs with several age groups or senior sides, managing orders can be tricky. Leading suppliers now offer online club shops that allow players and families to order directly. This reduces volunteer workload, reduces the risk of data entry errors, and ensures each player receives the correct size and items. Always ask if your supplier offers this service, it can save hours of coordination for your uniform coordinator.

6. What kind of customer support should we expect?

Reliable communication is just as important as product quality. Look for a supplier who provides a dedicated account manager or local representative. They should be available to assist with design adjustments, bulk orders, and reorders throughout the year. Local support within Queensland or Northern NSW often means faster turnaround and more personal service.  For extra assurance on customer service levels, ask to speak to some of the supplier’s existing customers.

Final Word:
Choosing the right uniform supplier can make all the difference to your club’s professionalism, player satisfaction, and volunteer workload. By asking the right questions and working with an experienced custom uniform supplier as your club’s long term partner, your club can enjoy a smooth, stress-free process.

Need help?  Contact  the KPI Sports Customer Service team for any questions about your rugby club's next uniform order.