Our Story
Apparelmaster is New Zealand’s leading provider of fully managed workwear and workplace rental solutions, helping businesses save time and money by taking care of uniforms, protective clothing, laundering, repairs and delivery with care and professionalism. Proudly 100% Kiwi owned and operated for over 40 years, we serve a wide range of industries across the country, ensuring your team looks professional, stays safe and focuses on what they do best.
The Initial Years
The story of Apparelmaster in New Zealand begins with Bill Ritchie, pictured here at the 40th Annual Conference. In 1978, Taylor Bros Ltd introduced the Apparelmaster brand from the U.S., with Bill working alongside John Taylor to tailor it to the local drycleaning and workwear market. That same year, Taylors Apparelmaster launched in Wellington, signing Edwards Panelbeaters—still a customer today. Bill later became General Manager of the Taylor Brothers group as Apparelmaster grew nationally, licensing to established drycleaning businesses like Sincerity Drycleaners in Matamata, the first and still active licensee.
Forming Apparelmaster Australasia 1993 Ltd
In 1993, Bill took a major step by securing exclusive franchising rights for Australia and New Zealand, forming Apparelmaster Australasia 1993 Ltd—still operating under the same name. All profits have remained in New Zealand since. By the late 1990s, the Apparelmaster network was largely established and has remained consistent for nearly 20 years. In 1996, Bill's son Bevan joined the business, becoming a joint licensee of Wellington Apparelmaster Ltd.
Recent Years
In 2006, coinciding with Bevan joining the Apparelmaster Australasia team full time, the group formalised a head office structure to provide a centralised contact point for the Apparelmaster network. Bevan became Managing Director in 2010 and now leads the established head office, which plays an active role in supporting the success of each independently owned and operated Apparelmaster business.
This includes maintaining a nationwide, fully customised computer system (overhauled in 2013), conducting annual audits to uphold service standards, supporting national sales and marketing, and setting group-wide policies. Over time, Apparelmaster's services have expanded to include laundry and drycleaning, workwear rental, mats, towels, washroom supplies, first aid kits, and lockers.
Apparelmaster began in the automotive sector and is now New Zealand's leading supplier and commercial launderer of branded workwear for top automotive brands like Toyota, Ford, Nissan, and more.
We also support well-known national clients such as Hirepool, while continuing to service local businesses across the country.
Our focus on evolving industry needs, safety compliance, and tailored service sets us apart — delivering high-quality rental and laundry solutions that truly make us the masters of your trade.
Our Partners
