UniFirst Corporation (NYSE: UNF) announced the launch of Always U, a new workwear collection designed for active workers in industries such as manufacturing, distribution, transportation, and construction. The collection begins shipping Sept. 5, 2026, and is available through UniFirst's managed uniform rental programs.

The Always U line uses poly/cotton fabrics with mechanical stretch, which the company says delivers 10% to 12% more stretch than standard uniforms. Design features include internal elastic waistbands, integrated crotch gussets, articulated knees, and utility pockets.

The collection includes a dedicated women's line, with shirts featuring waist shaping and hem lengths cut to a woman's natural profile, and pants and shorts with a contoured mid-rise fit, lay-flat pockets, and cargo storage. UniFirst cited U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data showing women represent approximately 14.3% of construction employment, 28.6% of manufacturing employment, and 26.2% of transportation and warehousing employment.

"When frontline workers spend their entire day in a uniform, what they wear matters to them and to their business," said Steven Sintros, CEO of UniFirst. "Always U delivers the best of both worlds. We have a high-performance collection with mechanical stretch, advanced mobility features, and modern style, all at an affordable price point built specifically for a managed rental program."

UniFirst's managed rental programs include laundering, garment inspection, maintenance, repairs, replacement, and pickup and delivery services. The Wilmington, Mass.-based company serves more than 300,000 customer locations and outfits over 2 million workers daily.