An average size split for mixed teams is around 5 per cent XS, 15 per cent S, 30 per cent M, 30 per cent L, 15 per cent XL and 5 per cent 2XL. This is a good starting point if you have not yet collected individual sizes from your team. For exact sizes, it is best to ask your staff directly.
The detailed answer
The ideal size split depends on the make-up of your team. For predominantly male teams, the percentages shift towards L and XL. For predominantly female teams, they shift towards S and M. For international teams, it is wise to allow a few extra XL and 2XL, while for fitted or slim-fit styles we recommend one size up from what the employee normally wears.
For teams with separate women’s and men’s fits, it is best to calculate per fit. It also helps to get two or three samples to try on, so you can be sure the chosen sizes match the fit of that particular brand.
What does this mean for your business?
Don’t underestimate the importance of the size split. Wrong sizes lead to clothing that doesn’t get worn, which is a waste of both budget and brand visibility. Better to spend an extra week collecting individual sizes than to be stuck with the wrong ones afterwards.
For larger organisations, we work with an online size form where every employee enters their own size. This can be combined with a sample session where team members can try on different sizes before making their choice.
Advice from Maximum Image
For your first order, allow a buffer of at least 10 to 15 per cent per size. That way, you immediately have stock for new starters, losses or replacements. For repeat orders through our clothing management system (KMS), we keep every employee’s sizes on record, which makes future orders considerably faster.
See also corporate clothing for staff.
