'Too many families forced to pay over the odds for branded uniforms,' watchdog says

Introducing changes such allowing generic uniform items, reducing bespoke pieces, or allowing iron-on or stitch-on crests can go a long way in helping families.

Too many families continue to be forced to pay over the odds for branded or crested school uniforms, the consumer watchdog has warned. 

The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) has written to schools once again, asking them to use generic uniforms when possible, and to review existing arrangements with suppliers. 

As the school year draws to a close, the CCPC said it is still receiving complaints through its consumer helpline from families who feel they have limited choice when purchasing uniforms. 

Back-to-school costs can be a significant source of stress, said Grainne Griffin, CCPC director of communications, consumer information and financial education.

"Too many families are forced to pay over the odds for branded uniforms. Even small changes in school policies can make a huge difference in easing that financial burden." She added that many schools have taken "positive steps" in this area. 

"Unfortunately, we’re still hearing from frustrated families who feel limited in their choices. 

Introducing changes such allowing generic uniform items, reducing bespoke pieces, or allowing iron-on or stitch-on crests can go a long way in helping families.

The CCPC wrote to all schools last year recommending against branded uniforms, “bespoke” back-to-school items and exclusive suppliers. It followed its research on the hidden costs of back to school, which found on average, parents spent €169 on uniforms and €99 on specific PE items. 

The CCPC also told schools last summer to ensure a competitive process underpins the appointment of any exclusive suppliers for uniforms and tech devices. 

However, a number of complaints it received between last June and February mention exclusive suppliers, ‘crested’ uniform items and a lack of opportunities for families to shop around.

One parent told the CCPC they were researching uniforms for their daughter who was due to start post-primary school. The expected uniform is "supplied by only one provider, is extremely expensive, could be bought for much cheaper elsewhere," they said. 

"However, they do state explicitly on their website the uniform must be bought from their [official] supplier.”

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Another complaint received by the CCPC highlighted how a local primary school approved a new PE uniform. "Not only are they bringing in a newly 'crested' PE uniform, there are no alternative 'non-crested' alternatives to purchase at reduced prices.” 

Another complaint to the CCPC said a school had "forced" parents into an uncompetitive sole source supply arrangement to supply more expensive uniforms. 

The complaint said a discussion on how to "evolve" the school uniform took place last May, and then a trader later was announced as the "sole supplier" in June. "No record is available to show a legitimate public tender took place.”   

• Jess Casey is education correspondent for the Irish Examiner