Frank Yap, a former engineering student at Nanyang Technological University (NTU), has turned the uniform industry on its head by founding Apparel Empire, a Singapore-based company that specialises in bespoke corporate apparel. Within a year of its inception, Yap achieved his first million in revenue, driven by a vision to make uniforms stylish and reflective of brand identity.
Yap’s journey began when he noticed the uninspiring nature of work uniforms during his university days. Determined to change this, he dropped out of NTU and invested his life savings of S$30,000 to establish his own factory in China. This strategic move allowed him to control every aspect of production, from design to manufacturing, offering clients unparalleled customisation options.
Apparel Empire has since completed over 25,000 projects, collaborating with multinational corporations (MNCs) such as Coca Cola, Crocs, Meta, and Skechers. Yap’s innovative approach has also seen his designs featured in Harvard University’s bookstore in the US. “If you can ask for it, we can make it,” Yap boldly claims, highlighting the company’s commitment to meeting unique client demands.
By eliminating middlemen and reducing minimum order quantities, Apparel Empire provides flexibility and precision in uniform design. The company sources fabrics globally, catering to specific aesthetic and safety requirements, such as using 3M reflective materials for construction uniforms.
Yap’s success story underscores the potential for creativity and innovation in traditional industries. As Apparel Empire continues to grow, it sets a new standard for corporate apparel, transforming uniforms into a tool for brand identity and team cohesion.
