Case Studies

KLM UK Engineering – modern aircraft maintenance

A wholly owned KLM subsidiary that prides itself on having an experienced and skilled team.

The Challenge

KLM UK Engineering set HeathBrook the challenge of sourcing modern workwear – comprising trousers, jackets, and coveralls – in distinct colourways, available in gender-specific fits for both male and female team members, and suitable for industrial laundry processes.

This was no small task: no existing garments on the market met all these requirements while remaining fully coordinated and fit for purpose. The uniform also needed to allow for high flexibility to support a variety of engineering tasks – such as undercarriage and cabin work – while offering comfort and protection for general maintenance activities. Importantly, it had to be available in a wide size range to cater for all employees.

The Solution

Staff Involvement

To meet this unique and demanding brief, we rigorously tested all potential suppliers and garments against KLM UK Engineering’s criteria – fit, gender inclusivity, colour accuracy, industrial laundry compatibility, and real-world durability.

Through trade show research, early access to pre-production samples, and proactive collaboration with our manufacturing partner, we sourced a jacket and trouser combination that met the specification. These new-generation garments were made of a stretch fabric which incorporates recycled fibres.

Although four colours were initially explored to match the previous uniform, the final range included three – Blue, Green, and Grey- selected from the available colourways. Black, while offered by the manufacturer, was excluded as it is worn by contracted staff and would have created confusion. Blue was chosen as the primary colour to align with the KLM brand. A series of sizing days were arranged – not just for logistics, but to actively engage staff in the transition, ensuring they felt confident and comfortable with the new garments.

KLM UK Engineering – modern aircraft maintenance

The Solution

Staff Involvement

A collaborative approach

Meeting The Needs Of A Modern Workforce

“HeathBrook has helped us develop a modern, professional uniform which enhances our teams’ comfort and functionality in the workplace. Their collaborative and proactive approach, combined with an ability to deliver tailored solutions, made them a valuable partner in transforming our uniform provision to meet the needs of our workforce.”

– Anthony Goodrum, Procurement Manager at KLM UK Engineering

The Result

Many KLM UK Engineering team members had worn the same uniform for over 20 years – a basic style of jacket, trouser, and coverall available only in a male/unisex fit with no shaping.

The sizing days allowed them to try the new garments first-hand and appreciate significant improvements in fit, comfort, and practicality.

The new uniform delivered immediate benefits: a smart, modern appearance, enhanced comfort, and improved performance in the field. Staff shared their appreciation for the updated look and the noticeable difference compared to the previous workwear.

Each garment was individually named, tracked, and serviced through a full wearer pack system. Special care was taken in the development of badges and embroidery to ensure longevity through repeated industrial laundering.

The personalised service and smooth rollout reflected the strength of the HeathBrook offer – made possible through close collaboration and meticulous planning. This project showcased our ability to operate as our client’s uniform department and, in this instance, support the outstanding team at KLM UK Engineering in delivering world-class maintenance across Norwich and their line stations in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Newcastle, and Belfast.

A collaborative approach

Meeting The Needs Of A Modern Workforce

– Anthony Goodrum, Procurement Manager at KLM UK Engineering

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Aviation Customers

We have been servicing aviation clients for over 20 year, and work with some of the strongest brands in the industry. We are proud to say that our footwear has been specified by a world-leading airline for over 15 years.