The rising cost of school uniforms is a hot topic this time of year, causing stress for many parents as they foot the bill. Local family-run retailer, Focus have tackled the issue head on to help families and in the process are also having a positive impact on the environment.
Focus have been stocking secondary school uniforms for boys and girls for over 40 years, and with the rising costs from suppliers they have taken a proactive approach, working with the local schools they partner with to reduce the cost for parents this summer and beyond. They have been successful in implementing changes to the blazer composition for some of the schools they are official uniform suppliers for as well & changes to some of the sports kit for schools in North Down and Ards.
This has translated to a saving across the board and a huge saving in some cases, especially with the introduction of a poly rather than wool option for blazers.
Gaving Dumigan, director, said of the savings “Last year, a blazer for Strangford College along with a pair of trousers & a two pack of shirts could have cost more than £150. We have been able to work with schools and suppliers to bring the price of this bundle for the same items down to £80 this year!”
“Another example is Glenlola Collegiate; where a blazer, skirt & two pack of blouses could have cost upwards of £150 last year, we have been able to bring that down to £85. There are considerable savings across all our schools when compared to previous years’ prices.”
On top of the savings for parents, Focus have also partnered with Ecologi who have made a multi-year commitment to plant a million trees to help combat climate change. Every single blazer sold plants a tree.
Director Kirk Dumigan said “Young people are much more aware of environmental issues so it is great to know their blazers are helping make a difference. We have had a positive response so far from parents and students when picking up their uniform in store.”
The friendly and professional staff at Focus in Newtownards & Bangor are used to sizing up suits so can quickly & efficiently grab the perfect sized pieces for your son or daughter to keep the uniform shopping experience as swift & stress free as possible.
Be sure to call to High Street, Bangor or South Street, Newtownards or visit Focusni.com to secure big savings on your school uniform costs this summer and do your bit for the planet.
