Celebrating our Coal-Free Journey at Alsco Uniforms Christchurch

At Alsco Uniforms, sustainability is more than just a goal, it’s a responsibility. That’s why we’re proud to share a significant milestone in our journey: our entire New Zealand business is now completely coal-free.

The installation of a state-of-the-art biomass boiler at our Christchurch site marked the final step in phasing out coal across all our operations. While the boiler has been quietly powering Christchurch for a few months, we recently came together for a special morning tea to officially celebrate this achievement.

The event brought together a wide range of people who contributed to making this milestone possible. We were joined by our Senior Leadership Team, engineering and logistics teams, suppliers, and our incredible staff. Each person’s role, from planning and design through to installation and ongoing operations, has been vital in bringing this project to life.

A special thank you goes to EECA, whose co-funding of $1.1 million and continued support helped make this transition possible. Their commitment to cleaner, more efficient energy has been instrumental in driving change not only for us, but across Aotearoa. We also extend a huge thank you to our suppliers, MHM Automation, Kelford Engineering, and Azwood, whose expertise and support were critical in making this project a success.

We were honoured to welcome Te Taumata Tapu o Ngāi Tūāhuriri, who provided a blessing for the boiler site and sang a waiata. It was a special moment that brought a sense of connection and community to the occassion.

Given the scale of our operations and resources, we are extremely proud of the impact we are making. Alsco Uniforms New Zealand has already reduced its emissions by 60%; ahead of both national targets and Science Based Targets. Becoming a coal-free business across New Zealand is a significant step forward in that journey.

The launch event was more than just a celebration — it was a chance to reflect on how far we’ve come, to connect with the people who made it possible, and to look forward to what’s next. Our transition away from coal marks a major step in our commitment to reducing emissions, protecting the environment, and building a more sustainable future for our customers, our people, and communities.

We’re excited about what lies ahead and will continue working toward innovative, sustainable solutions across all our operations.

Spotlight: Cherie McLagan – Service Delivery Supervisor

How long have you worked at Alsco Uniforms?

I have been working at Alsco Uniforms Napier for about 11 years.

What has your career journey been like with the company?

My journey with Alsco Uniforms has been fun and rewarding! I started as an SDP (Service Delivery Person) on a hygiene truck under our Fresh & Clean division back in 2014, and during that time, I’ve been a bit of a “jack of all trades.” I was always happy to help out wherever I could. When I started, our production facility was still located at the Napier branch, so I pitched in with folding tea towels, scanning garments, washing hygiene units, and barcoding garments in the clothing store.

I later took on First Aid services of Napier, which I did one day a week (while still working four days a week on hygiene). I loved the variety! I also began servicing duties for EIT (Eastern Institute of Technology) and have been working alongside them for eight years.

Then COVID hit. During the lockdowns, I continued working in a very different environment – this time on a textile truck. It was a strange time, with a big loss of customers and a handful of us working at the depot. I hadn’t done much textiles before, but I took it all in stride. 

In 2020, I was awarded SDP of the Year – which was a great achievement!

In 2023, Napier was devastated by Cyclone Gabrielle. Overnight, we lost some major customers. It was a tough time for all of us. Everywhere you went, there was destruction, and seeing our customers – some of whom I had worked closely with – lose everything was heartbreaking. But it’s been truly inspiring to watch our community and customers slowly rebuild and come back from it. 

Our Napier team was amazing; working closely together to support our customers, and most importantly, each other.

In February 2025, I took on the role of Service Supervisor. I’ve loved working more closely with the team and seeing a different side of the business. 

What makes Alsco a great place where people want to stay and grow?

I think what makes Alsco Uniforms a great company to work for is that it offers job stability, promotes from within, provides strong training and support, fosters a team-oriented culture, offers diverse career opportunities, and values safety and quality. It’s a solid choice for long-term career development.

What do you love most about your job?

What I love most about my job at Alsco Uniforms is working closely with both staff and customers. I take pride in delivering great customer service and supporting my team to meet and exceed our targets. Being part of a team that works together toward shared goals really motivates me. 

What would you say to someone thinking about applying to Alsco Uniforms?

If you’re thinking about a career at Alsco Uniforms, I’d say go for it! It’s a stable company with a strong team culture and real opportunities to grow. You’ll get support, hands-on experience, and the chance to build lasting relationships with both customers and coworkers. If you care about doing good work and being part of team that takes pride in what they do, Alsco Uniforms is a great place to be. 

Spotlight: Annabelle Baker – People & Culture Business Partner (APHRNZ)

Thanks so much for making the time to come and talk to me. We’d love to ask you a few questions as you’re relatively new to the company and we’d love to get to know you a bit better!

Q1. Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your role at Alsco Uniforms?

Sure, so I’m the Human Resources Advisor and we’re a very small team here at Alsco, we’re based in the Support Centre office in Central Auckland. And I’ve been with Alsco Uniforms for around 10 months now. Time flies!

Q2. And what did your career path look like before you joined us?

So I got my BCom/Management degree at Victoria University in Wellington, and then floated around some sort of different HR and admin related roles. Spent some time on remuneration projects over in Darwin, Australia. And then training and development projects, before a decent stint in recruitment and training programmes for the healthcare industry. These were busy roles and high volume, but quite different to Alsco – different industries.

Q3. Have you completed any training or qualifications completed through Alsco Uniforms?

Yes! So I’ve completed quite a bit of training at Alsco Uniforms, my personal development has been highly encouraged by my manager and I have been very well supported. So Alsco Uniforms recently supported my Human Resources New Zealand Accreditation – which is a great string to add to my bow. 

Q4. What do you love most about your job?

Mostly the people that I work with. The people that we work with here are such salt of the earth people, if you know what I mean?  There are some amazing people who work here and they work hard, and so are easy to admire. And I’m also quite proud of how innovative Alsco Uniforms can be in terms of sustainability achievements, such as cutting our carbon emissions, that seems to be a focus at the moment and I’m really enjoying watching what Alsco Uniforms will do in the future in that sustainability space. 

Q5. What advice would you give to someone thinking about joining Alsco Uniforms?

No advice, just come on in and join our team!

Orange Sky & Alsco Uniforms : A Fresh Start for Māngere Families

Sometimes, it’s the simple things — like clean clothes — that can make a world of difference. That’s the mission behind Orange Sky, a not-for-profit organisation offering free mobile laundry and shower services to people doing it tough. And now, thanks to a powerful partnership with Alsco, this mission is reaching even more families in need, right in the heart of Māngere.

A Load Off – literally and figuratively

For many families in the Māngere community, accessing a washing machine isn’t always an option. With rising living costs and housing challenges, keeping up with everyday essentials like laundry can become a real burden. Orange Sky’s mobile laundry van offers a game-changing service — free washing, drying, and a safe space for conversation. 

One first-time user, highlighted in a recent RNZ article, said the service felt like a “huge weight lifted.” Not only were they grateful for the clean clothes, but also for the kindness and dignity the Orange Sky volunteers bring with them.

How Alsco Uniforms Helps Power the Mission

As a long-standing leader in workplace hygiene and linen rental services, Alsco Uniforms brings more than just equipment to the partnership. They support Orange Sky with logistical help, industrial supplies, and behind-the-scenes resources that help keep the laundry vans running smoothly. 

Together, Orange Sky and Alsco Uniforms are making it easier for families to focus on what really matters — their health, their kids, and their futures — without worrying about something as basic (yet essential) as clean clothes.

More Than Just a Wash

Orange Sky is about more than laundry — it’s about connection. Each mobile van is staffed by volunteers who lend a friendly ear and open heart. For many users, the chance to talk while their clothes are being washed is just as valuable as the service itself

By combining social impact with everyday support, Orange Sky and Alsco Uniforms are proving that compassion, community, and clean clothes go hand in hand.

Get Involved

Whether it’s through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, there are plenty of ways to support the incredible work Orange Sky and Alsco Uniforms are doing across New Zealand.

To learn more, visit:

🔗 orangesky.org.nz

Further reading/media:

• https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/ldr/557752/free-laundry-service-by-orange-sky-a-load-off-for-mangere-families-first-time-user-says 
• https://pmn.co.nz/read/news/free-laundry-service-by-orange-sky-a-load-off-for-mangere-families-says-first-time-user 
• https://voxy.co.nz/national/orange-sky-launches-permanent-south-auckland-laundry-service-to-meet-growing-need/21498/
• https://waateanews.com/2025/04/04/kat-doughty-orange-sky-senior-impact-manager-3/

Spotlight: Aleesha Haywood – Business Manager

Welcome to our Spotlight series, where we delve into the stories of our Alsco Uniforms employees; exploring their experiences, career trajectories, and the unique insights they’ve gained along the way. This interview features Aleesha Haywood, one of our Business Managers at Alsco Uniforms – Napier!

My Start at alsco uniforms

I’m incredibly proud of the progress I’ve made at Alsco since I started in June 2023. I joined as a Service Supervisor and had the honour of leading a dedicated team through some remarkable achievements.

Achievements as a Supervisor

One of the highlights of my time as Service Supervisor was leading my team to win Alsco’s first-ever Mega Campaign for 2024—a milestone that I’ll always remember as a testament to our hard work and commitment.

Leadership and Sales Success

In addition, I introduced my L3 Leadership Project, which played a significant role in our success in sales. By introducing a pricing list for our SDP’s whilst out on the road, we not only elevated our team’s performance but also clinched the Q4 Top Sales spot for 2024, a proud moment for us all!

New Role as Business Manager

I was then recently promoted to Business Manager, a role that I’m excited to take on as I continue to grow with this great company. This promotion represents a new chapter in my career, and I look forward to bringing even more value to Alsco Uniforms as I take on greater responsibilities and contribute to our ongoing success.

I’m grateful to work alongside such a talented and supportive team, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds at Alsco!

Alsco Uniforms Supports Flooded Wairoa Community

Early last month Health New Zealand – Te Whatu Ora reached out to Alsco Uniforms to see if we were able to support whānau in Waiora that were severely impacted by recent flooding.

Over 400 households have been affected, with 127 marked with yellow stickers. Many of these homes include tamariki and kaumatua, all of whom have been left with very limited bedding and linen. Residents have been instructed to discard all their soft furnishings. A colleague in Wairoa reported that whānau have been retrieving bedding from rubbish piles due to the lack of available supplies locally.

Our Palmerston North and Richmond branches quickly stepped in, providing much-needed sheets, pillowcases, and towels, which were in high demand and greatly appreciated. We also organised transportation through our Napier depot, with local leader Robbie Semu facilitating deliveries and assessing further needs. Recognising the urgent demand for bedding, Richard Mahood and his Richmond team gathered boxes of duvets, quilts, blankets, mattress protectors, and bathrobes, and sent them off to those in need.

As Richard aptly put it, “We want to provide more than just sheets! We have some old stock of bathrobes that we will send out. They’re warm and comforting—everyone deserves to feel cozy at night in a nice, fluffy bathrobe.”

Several pallets of Alsco goods were delivered to our Napier branch, where team members Robbie and Martin Rangi transported them to the Wairoa Rain Event Distribution Centre. When the organisation requested our help to pick up a bed for an elderly man whose home was yellow-stickered and who was found sleeping on a damp mattress, our team gladly stepped up. We arranged transportation and delivered a new bed directly to his home.

Great work, Alsco! And our support continues. The Wairoa community still urgently needs towels and flannels and Robbie is coordinating additional donations.

Alsco Uniforms Donates Van to Medical Aid Abroad

Alsco Uniforms is proud to announce that we’ve just donated another van to Medical Aid Abroad (MAA). This contribution will help deliver essential medical supplies to underserved communities and developing countries.

MAA is a charitable trust that we greatly admire for donating valuable, unused medical goods to developing countries, especially in the Pacific Islands. Every year, about 2,000 cartons of goods that would otherwise end up in landfills are sent to medical centres, doctors, hospitals, and pharmacies overseas.

This ensures that these critical supplies reach those in need rather than going to waste.

Since 2016, Alsco Uniforms has been an avid supporter of MAA, covering vehicle expenses, including registration, WoF, fuel, and maintenance costs. In 2019, we elevated our support by donating a van to replace their ageing vehicle.

This week, we’ve taken another significant step forward by providing a bigger and better van from our Nelson branch. The keys were handed over by Monique Welsh, our General Manager for New Zealand & Asia, to Murray Kerr – Chairman, and Kim Kempthorne – Stores Manager.

But we couldn’t have accomplished this without the help of several dedicated individuals and teams. We’d love to acknowledge the following people for their contributions in bringing this donation to life:

❤️ Richard and the team from Alsco Uniforms Nelson – for the donation of the vehicle itself.

❤️ Shane from Wide Glide Panel Beaters, Kingsland– for giving the van a bit of a facelift.

❤️ Glenn, Rod, and the team at Brave Design, Henderson – for designing and applying the new livery at no cost.

Additionally, a special thank you to Darrell Alvey from Auckland Fresh & Clean for helping us deliver the blank van to Brave Design, where the owners Glenn and Rod received it and worked their magic.

The new livery, generously designed and applied by Brave Design, has given the van a fresh and professional look. This enhancement not only improves the vehicle’s appearance but also helps raise awareness of MAA’s vital mission as it travels on the road.

From next week, you may see this new van on the road, diligently picking up and delivering essential supplies to where they are needed most. Keep an eye out for it, and join us in celebrating the incredible work that MAA does every day to support healthcare in developing countries.

Spotlight: Shehara WedaMesthrige – Client Manager

Welcome to our Spotlight series, where we delve into the stories of our Alsco Uniforms employees; exploring their experiences, career trajectories, and the unique insights they’ve gained along the way. This interview features Shehara WedaMesthrige, one of our Client Managers at Alsco Uniforms – Auckland. We sat down with her recently to unpack her time within the company and gain valuable insights into her professional journey.

How long have you been at the company and when did you start?

I joined Alsco on 1^st February 2023, as a Customer Service Team Leader within the contact centre. Prior to joining Alsco Uniforms, I spent over five years in the telecommunications industry, serving as a team leader. After approximately eight months in my role as team leader, I was offered the opportunity to transition into the Client Manager role for the Auckland Fresh and Clean branch. I thoroughly enjoy assisting our customers in meeting their business needs in both sales and service aspects.

Have you received any training or qualifications through Alsco?

Yes, Alsco has provided me with the necessary training to excel in my role and effectively perform my duties. This comprehensive training has equipped me with the skills and knowledge needed to handle various tasks and responsibilities within the company. Additionally, I’m excited to further enhance my leadership abilities by participating in the upcoming Level 3 Leadership course, which Alsco Uniforms offers to support professional development. This commitment to ongoing training and education demonstrates Alsco’s dedication to empowering its employees to grow and succeed in their careers. I am grateful for the opportunities Alsco Uniforms provides for continuous learning and development, as it enables me to continually improve and contribute to the company’s success.

What would you say your biggest achievement has been in your career with alsco?

During my tenure at Alsco, one of my most significant achievements has been my role as a Call Centre Team Leader. In this position, I had the opportunity to lead and support the customer service team, guiding them towards achieving their key performance indicators (KPIs). This accomplishment was particularly rewarding as it involved addressing challenges that the team had been facing for some time. Through effective leadership, mentorship, and collaboration, we were able to overcome obstacles and consistently meet and exceed our performance goals. This experience not only showcased my leadership abilities but also fostered a sense of teamwork and accomplishment among the entire customer service team. It was a defining moment in my career at Alsco, highlighting my commitment to excellence and my dedication to driving positive outcomes for both the team and the company as a whole.

What’s your favourite part about working for the company?

One of the most enjoyable aspects of being part of Alsco is the incredibly positive work environment it offers. At Alsco, there’s a palpable sense of positivity that permeates every aspect of the workplace, making it a truly uplifting place to be. What makes it even better is Alsco’s commitment to valuing cultural diversity. This inclusivity not only fosters a sense of belonging for employees from all backgrounds but also enriches the overall work experience by bringing together diverse perspectives and ideas. It’s inspiring to see how Alsco celebrates and embraces cultural diversity, creating a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere where everyone feels respected and appreciated. Working in such an environment not only enhances productivity but also fosters a strong sense of camaraderie and unity among colleagues.

What advice would you give someone considering a career at Alsco?

If you’re contemplating a career at Alsco, I would highly encourage you to take the leap. Alsco stands out as an excellent employer that genuinely values its employees. One of the most appealing aspects of working at Alsco is the ample opportunities for career growth and advancement within the company. Whether you’re starting out in an entry-level position or already have experience in the industry, Alsco provides a supportive environment where you can thrive and progress in your career. Additionally, Alsco prioritises employee well-being and fosters a positive work culture, making it a rewarding and fulfilling place to work. Joining Alsco Uniforms means becoming part of a team that is dedicated to excellence and committed to helping employees reach their full potential.

Ready to kickstart your career?

Head over to our careers page to find an opportunity which best suits you!

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Spotlight: Angela Webber – Client Manager

Welcome to our Spotlight series, where we delve into the stories of our Alsco Uniforms employees; exploring their experiences, career trajectories, and the unique insights they’ve gained along the way. This interview features Angela Webber – Client Manager at Alsco Uniforms. We sat down with her recently to unpack her time within the company and gain valuable insights into her professional journey.

How long have you been at the company and when did you start?

Before starting with Alsco Uniforms, I was in retail for 20 plus years, at that time I had just finished my first half Ironman in Rotorua, which led me to wanting a more varied job working outdoors. I started with Alsco in January 2017 as a Service Delivery Person delivering textiles in Palmerston North. After a year on this route, I was given the chance to take an out-of-town route servicing the Whanganui/Taihape region. I then took on the Masterton/Wairarapa region, and really enjoyed this route as it was always sunny and the drive out to Castlepoint was beautiful.

Unfortunately, while I was on this route I needed an operation which meant that heavy lifting was going to be a thing of the past for me. Alsco was a very supportive employer and offered me a position on the Fresh & Clean hygiene route, which meant I could travel back to my old services areas including the Kapiti/Horowhenua areas and visit my old customers.

In July 2022, an opportunity came up for me to apply for the position of the Client Manager in all of these areas/regions, which I jumped at! I love helping our customers achieve what is needed for their business and I had developed relationships with a lot of our customers after having serviced them in the past. 

What’s your favourite thing about working for alsco?

I love coming to work everyday knowing that each day is different. As a Service Delivery Person, I loved the exercise, driving around the country and getting to see all of my customers. As a Client Manager, I enjoy helping our existing customers, winning new customers, and talking about services they didn’t know Alsco Uniforms provided. 

Have you recieved any training or qualifications through alsco?

When I started with Alsco, I went to Auckland to complete my Level 2 Retail Training course. As a Client Manager, I have had training on computer skills from Alsco’s management support and have enjoyed Regional Training Events with the Sales Team. 

what would you say your biggest achievement has been in your career with alsco?

Alsco Uniforms puts up campaigns where management asks you to see how many mats, First Aid Kits, etc… you are able to sell within a certain period. I’ve always loved these types of challenges! So, not only do I get to do what I love (selling), but I get rewarded for it also.

As a result of one of these campaigns, I was proud to win Q2 Top Service Salesperson as a Service Delivery Person in 2022. That trophy now sits on my desk as a reminder to keep challenging myself. 

what advice would you give someone considering a career at alsco?

Alsco provides a family culture and values hard work. The company likes to see its staff achieve success and rewards that success with opportunities for professional growth. So, work hard with good performance and things will happen for you! 

Ready to kickstart your career?

Head over to our careers page to find an opportunity which best suits you!

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Spotlight: Megan Holloway – Health & Safety Coordinator

Welcome to our Spotlight series, where we delve into the stories of our Alsco Uniforms employees; exploring their experiences, career trajectories, and the unique insights they’ve gained along the way. This interview features Megan Holloway, our Health & Safety Coordinator at Alsco Uniforms – Palmerston North. We sat down with her recently to unpack her time within the company and gain valuable insights into her professional journey.

how long have you been at the company and when did you start?

I have been part of the Alsco family since I left high school at 18. I started in February 2009 on the production floor in Alsco Palmerston North in little old Donnington Street. I was part of the merge from Donnington Street to the new Palmy Hub building in Mihaere Drive, which was an emotional yet exciting move to be a part of. I continued working in the Garment Team completing the daily customer pack outs. I travelled to Wellington, Napier, and New Plymouth branches to learn the ropes and take all the tips back to the girls in the team. In 2014/2015, I felt ready for a new challenge and moved to the Store Team. This was very different to Production, I really loved and enjoyed my time there and learning a side of the company from a different perspective.

In 2019, I took a career break for a few years which was great, but I felt I was missing being part of the Alsco team and I needed to work, I was too bored! I managed to get my foot back in the door with the Store Team, however this was a short stint as the opportunity arose to apply for a Health & Safety Coordinator position. Something about this felt right and I was being pulled to give it a go, and in August 2022 I started my new role in Health & Safety! I have loved and enjoyed every minute of it, it’s been a great challenge and I have learned so much and had many opportunities through this role.

have you received any training or qualifications through alsco?

I was willing to move forward in the company and wanted to show my interest to grow so I started helping out my supervisor when she was off on leave. Eventually, a position arose for Garment Team Supervisor, and although I missed out on it, my manager put me through my Level 3 Certificate in Business First Line Management. During my time in Health & Safety, I have also completed my National Certificate in Manufacturing Level 2 and will be looking at completing Level 3 over 2024. I loved having the opportunity to do this through Alsco!

what would you say your biggest achievement has been in your career with alsco?

My biggest achievement with my career at Alsco Uniforms has been my professional and personal growth. I couldn’t have achieved this much without the encouragement and support of the company. I aim to continue to improve my knowledge of Health & Safety and further develop my skill sin the industry alongside a great team of people.

what is your favourite part about working for the company?

My favourite part about working for Alsco has been meeting and working alongside all the wonderful faces each and every day along with being supported by my manager and others to continue to grow. I am so proud of what I have achieved so far, and I want to continue to grow and make a difference in the company where I can show my two little ‘mini me’s’ at home that you can be a strong, independent, and successful woman if you persevere.

The work culture is also one of my favourite parts about working for the company. When you become part of Alsco Uniforms you not only become part of a team, but part of a family. The support of peers, my manager and other teachers/mentors/colleagues I’ve had along with the way has been incredible and they’ve all been very patient. I strive to keep moving forward and growing in the company as it’s a great place to work.

what advice would you give someone considering a career at ALsco?

My advice to anyone considering a career with Alsco Uniforms is to go for it! But to strive to make a difference and persevere. If you have to start small, so be it, invest time and effort in a company who are willing to invest back into you and you too can create a career with Alsco.

READY TO KICKSTART YOU CAREER?

Head over to our careers page to find an opportunity which best suits you!

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