How To Start A Scrub Business From Scratch in 8 Steps

In this article, we’ll unveil the essential steps on how to start a scrub business, providing you with the roadmap to success in the healthcare apparel industry.

Key Takeaways

8 steps to start a scrub business:

1. Write your Business Plan
2. Create a Brand Identity
3. Name your Medical Scrubs Business
4. Find Financing
5. Structure the Enterprise
6. Purchase Equipment, Software, Supplies & Tools Needed
7. Launch your Business
8. Get your Marketing Plan

Why Start a Scrub Business?

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Growing Market: With the increase in healthcare professionals and institutions, the demand for scrubs is continuously rising.
• Recurring Customers: Medical professionals often need multiple sets of scrubs, leading to repeat business.
• Brand Potential: With a unique design or added functionality, your scrubs can stand out and become a preferred choice for many.
• Diverse Customer Base: While the primary target is healthcare professionals, other industries, such as veterinary and cosmetology, also use scrubs.
• Direct to Consumer E-commerce Potential: With an online store, you can bypass middlemen, offering competitive prices and better profit margins.
• Customization Opportunities: Institutions might require customized scrubs with logos, which can provide bulk order opportunities.

Cons

• Competition: The scrub industry is saturated with numerous established brands, making it crucial to find a unique selling proposition.
• Inventory Management: Maintaining the right size and design ratios can be challenging, leading to overstock or stockouts.
• Initial Investment: Sourcing high-quality material and setting up manufacturing can be capital intensive.
• Regulations and Standards: Medical apparel might need to meet specific standards in terms of material and design, which can complicate production.
• Seasonal Variations: There may be times in the year, especially outside of school semesters, when sales might dwindle as fewer students join medical courses.

Medical scrub trends

In delving into the prospect of starting a scrub business, it’s imperative to grasp the pulse of the industry. Below, we dissect the predominant trends in the medical scrub sector, emphasizing industry growth and the prevailing trends and challenges to easily find the question of how to start a scrub uniform business.

Industry Growth

• Projected Growth: The global medical apparel market, inclusive of scrubs, is on an upward trajectory. The continuous expansion of healthcare infrastructure coupled with the swelling ranks of medical professionals augurs well for heightened scrub demand. According to Fortune Business Insights, the global medical scrubs market size is valued at $46.15 billion in 2022 and projected to grow from $48.41 billion in 2023 to $73.10 billion by 2030.
• Diversification of Usage: The conventional image of scrubs being confined to hospitals is fast eroding. An array of sectors, spanning from outpatient clinics to veterinary centers and spas, have started incorporating scrubs into their dress codes.
• Direct-to-Consumer Models: A burgeoning trend is businesses bypassing traditional distribution channels to sell directly to consumers. This model, while challenging to implement, offers enhanced profit margins and greater control over pricing.

Trends and Challenges

Trends

• Functional Fashion: The days when scrubs were solely about utility are behind us. Today’s professionals are on the lookout for designs that seamlessly blend functionality with aesthetic appeal.
• Eco-conscious Choices: A palpable trend is the tilt towards sustainable scrubs crafted from eco-friendly materials. The healthcare community, being inherently attuned to global well-being, resonates with brands that mirror their environmental ethos.
• Tech-Infused Fabrics: Scrubs infused with technology, like antimicrobial and moisture-wicking properties, are gaining popularity. These features elevate user comfort while also mitigating risks of contamination.
• Inclusivity in Sizing: The demand is clear: scrubs for everyone. With a diverse medical workforce, brands are being nudged to offer a spectrum of sizes, from petite to plus, ensuring universal comfort and fit.
• Subscription Services: Some avant-garde brands are pioneering scrub subscription services. This model caters to professionals by delivering fresh scrubs at regular intervals, obviating the need for repetitive orders.

Challenges

• Functional Fashion: The days when scrubs were solely about utility are behind us. Today’s professionals are on the lookout for designs that seamlessly blend functionality with aesthetic appeal.
• Eco-conscious Choices: A palpable trend is the tilt towards sustainable scrubs crafted from eco-friendly materials. The healthcare community, being inherently attuned to global well-being, resonates with brands that mirror their environmental ethos.
• Tech-Infused Fabrics: Scrubs infused with technology, like antimicrobial and moisture-wicking properties, are gaining popularity. These features elevate user comfort while also mitigating risks of contamination.
• Inclusivity in Sizing: The demand is clear: scrubs for everyone. With a diverse medical workforce, brands are being nudged to offer a spectrum of sizes, from petite to plus, ensuring universal comfort and fit.
• Subscription Services: Some avant-garde brands are pioneering scrub subscription services. This model caters to professionals by delivering fresh scrubs at regular intervals, obviating the need for repetitive orders.

Target Market

As we delve deeper into the intricacies of the scrub business, it’s essential to highlight and understand the target market. Identifying your target audience is crucial, as it shapes your product design, marketing strategies, and overall business approach is necessary in your way of answering how to start a scrub uniform business.

Medical Hospitals & Clinics

• Surgeons & Operating Room Staff: They require specialized scrubs that are sterile and suited for the demanding environment of surgeries.
• Nurses & Medical Assistants: This group forms a large chunk of the potential market. They often seek comfort, functionality, and a touch of style.
• Medical Technicians: Those in radiology, laboratories, and other specialized departments might need scrubs that cater to their specific tasks and environments.

Dental Clinics

• Dentists & Dental Hygienists: They prefer scrubs that offer flexibility, given the nature of their work, and pockets to keep dental tools.

Veterinary Practices

• Veterinarians & Vet Assistants: Their scrubs might get more stains and need to be durable and easy to clean, given their close contact with animals.

Cosmetic & Aesthetic Clinics

• Cosmetologists & Estheticians: These professionals often seek stylish and fashionable scrubs that reflect the aesthetic nature of their job.

Educational Institutions

• Medical Students & Trainees: They often need affordable, durable, and comfortable scrubs for their rigorous training and hands-on sessions.

Wellness & Rehabilitation Centers

• Physical Therapists & Massage Therapists: Comfort and ease of movement are top priorities for this group.

Research Institutions & Laboratories

• Researchers & Lab Technicians: Given the nature of their work, they might prioritize scrubs that are resistant to chemical spills and stains.

Specialty Clinics

• Chiropractors, Acupuncturists, & Alternative Medicine Practitioners: These professionals might seek scrubs that convey a sense of tranquility and healing.

Home Health & Assisted Living Facilities

• Caregivers & Health Aides: Given the physical demands and diverse environments they work in, they require durable, comfortable, and easy-to-clean scrubs.

Children’s Centers & Daycares

• Childcare Professionals: Especially those catering to infants and toddlers, may prefer scrubs for their ease of cleaning and the professional appearance they offer.

How much does it cost to start a medical scrubs business?

The estimated cost of kickstarting a scrub business falls between $7,500 to $67,000. This range accounts for various foundational expenses and is suitable to begin the journey of how to start a scrub uniform business. 

Below are some fees you need to consider:

• Legal Fees: including Business Structure (Choosing between an LLC, corporation, sole proprietorship, etc., involves legal costs. This can vary but setting up an LLC, for instance, might cost depending on the state.) and Contracts & Agreements (Drafting supplier, customer, and employee contracts range depending on the complexity and the attorney’s rates.)
• Liability Insurance: Protecting your business from potential legal claims is crucial. Liability insurance costs can range depending on the coverage level and the size of your business.
• Licenses and Permits: Depending on your location and the nature of your business (brick-and-mortar store vs. online store)
• Trademarking: If you’re planning to trademark your brand name and logo to protect your brand identity, this can set you back per trademark, excluding attorney fees.
• Inventory and Manufacturing: Your initial stock of scrubs can be one of the most significant costs. For instance, the process and necessary materials when working on how to start a body scrub business is really important.
• Marketing and Branding: Building a website, branding materials, and initial marketing campaigns can cost in a various way based on the scope and platforms used.
• Other Expenses: This can include renting a physical store or office space, hiring staff, utility bills, and other miscellaneous expenses.

How profitable is a medical scrubs business?

The profitability of a medical scrubs business largely hinges on a variety of factors including the product’s quality, branding, target audience, and pricing strategy.

Custom Scrubs Premium

• Tailored Value: Custom scrubs inherently possess a higher value proposition. Given their specially manufactured and designed nature, they cater to specific client needs, be it in terms of design, fit, or function. This unique selling proposition allows for premium pricing.
• Material & Design Impact: The price of custom scrubs can vary based on the type and color of the materials used. For instance, using sustainable or tech-enhanced fabrics can raise the manufacturing cost but can also justify a higher selling price due to increased consumer demand for such features.

Market Price Range

• Standard Scrubs: Popular stores typically offer scrubs (either tops or pants) in the range of $5 to $50 each. This wide range accommodates various qualities, designs, and brand reputations.
• High-end Scrubs: For those who emphasize quality, brand, and unique designs, scrubs can command prices of $40 to $50. This bracket primarily consists of designer scrubs, premium materials, or renowned brand names.

Profitability Considerations

• Volume vs. Margin: While standard scrubs might have a lower profit margin per piece compared to custom or high-end scrubs, they can potentially sell in higher volumes. On the other hand, custom and high-end scrubs, with their premium prices, can fetch higher margins per sale but might move in smaller volumes.
• Operational Costs: Beyond the production cost, remember to factor in overheads like rent, staff salaries, marketing expenses, and other operational costs when calculating profitability.
• Brand Positioning: A brand’s positioning in the market plays a pivotal role in determining its profitability. High-end brands can command better margins due to perceived value, while mass-market brands might rely on volume sales.

Pricing Strategy Tools

Shopify’s free profit margin calculator can be an invaluable tool for businesses. By inputting your cost and desired profit margin, the tool suggests an ideal selling price. It’s essential to ensure that the price covers all costs and still yields a desirable profit. Remember, setting the right price is a balance between market demand, competition, and your cost structure before understanding how to start a scrub uniform business.

What do people want in medical scrubs?

The preferences for medical scrubs have evolved significantly over the years. While functionality remains paramount, other factors such as aesthetics, durability, and comfort have gained prominence. 

Comfort

• Material: Soft, breathable fabrics that feel good against the skin are essential, especially considering the long hours healthcare professionals put in. This is especially necessary in the journey of learning how to make lip scrub for business.
• Fit: A well-fitted scrub, neither too tight nor too loose, enables ease of movement without restrictions.
• Moisture-Wicking: Given the physically demanding nature of healthcare jobs, scrubs that can wick away sweat and keep the wearer dry are highly preferred.

Durability

• Sturdy Fabric: Medical professionals need scrubs that can withstand frequent washing without losing color or shape.
• Reinforced Stitching: Given the range of motion required in healthcare, reinforced seams ensure that the scrubs don’t easily tear or wear out.

Functionality

• Pockets: Multiple, deep pockets are often a must, especially for nurses and technicians who need to carry around tools, pens, and small medical devices.
• Design Features: Elements like V-necks, side vents, and drawstrings cater to various needs and preferences of the professionals.

Aesthetics

• Colors & Patterns: While some institutions have color-coded uniforms, many medical professionals seek a range of colors and patterns to bring a bit of personality to their attire.
• Fashion-Forward Designs: Modern scrubs are moving away from the boxy, one-size-fits-all design. Many professionals look for scrubs that are stylish yet professional.

Safety & Hygiene

• Antimicrobial Fabrics: Given the exposure to germs and contaminants, many professionals prefer scrubs treated with antimicrobial agents to keep them germ-free.
• Easy to Clean: Scrubs that can be easily cleaned and disinfected without deteriorating are highly sought after. 

Ethical Considerations

• Sustainability: With growing consciousness about environmental impacts, there’s a rising demand for scrubs made from sustainable, eco-friendly materials. It’s kindly noted when you want to work in the cosmetics universe or when you are working on how to make lip scrub for business.
• Ethical Production: Brands that ensure ethical production practices might attract a more conscious clientele.

Value for Money

While many are willing to invest in high-quality scrubs, there’s a significant demand for affordable options that don’t compromise on quality. For example, how to start a body scrub business processing also demands the quality of products for attracting more and more potential clients.

Brand Reputation

Medical professionals often lean towards brands that are well-reviewed and trusted by their peers. A brand that consistently delivers on quality and service can generate loyal customers.

8 Steps to Start a Scrub Business

1. Write your Business Plan

A well-crafted business plan template not only maps out your strategy but can also be a key tool for securing investments. To answer how to start a scrub business online or offline, you’ll have to prepare these things for your Business Plan:

• Executive Summary: A brief overview of your business and its primary objectives.
• Business Description: Outline your niche in the scrub industry and state your business’s mission.
• Market Analysis: Identify your target market, analyze primary competitors, and keep abreast of market trends.
• Marketing and Sales Strategy: Define your brand’s positioning, planned marketing channels, and envisaged sales approach.
• Product Line: Detail the scrubs you’ll offer and your pricing strategy.
• Operations and Management: Describe your supply chain and introduce the key personnel.
• Financial Projections: Estimate startup costs, anticipated revenue, and a break-even point.
• Funding Request: If seeking external funding, specify the amount and its intended use.

2. Create a Brand Identity

Your brand identity is the face of your business and resonates with the emotions, perceptions, and experiences of your customers. 

• Define Your Brand’s Core Values: Begin by identifying the core values and principles that your scrub business will stand for. This could be sustainability, affordability, premium quality, or innovation.
• Brand Name: Choose a name that’s memorable, easy to pronounce, and reflects the essence of your business. Ensure it’s unique to avoid potential legal disputes. 
• Design a Logo: This visual element often becomes synonymous with a brand. Engage a graphic designer to create a logo that’s simple yet powerful. It should encapsulate the brand’s spirit and be easily recognizable.
• Choose a Color Palette: Colors evoke emotions. Select a palette that aligns with the emotions you wish to evoke – for instance, blue for trustworthiness or green for sustainability.
• Craft a Brand Voice: How do you want your brand to communicate? Whether it’s professional, friendly, or quirky, ensure consistency across all communication channels.
• Design Uniform Packaging: Your product’s packaging offers a tactile experience to customers. Design it to be both functional and aligned with your brand aesthetics.
• Create a Tagline: A catchy and concise tagline can communicate your brand’s essence in a nutshell. Think of Nike’s “Just Do It” or McDonald’s “I’m Lovin’ It.”
• Build an Online Presence: To know more about how to start a scrub business online, you should develop a professional website infused with your brand colors, voice, and logo. Additionally, set up branded social media profiles to connect with a wider audience.
• Consistency is Key: Ensure brand consistency across all platforms – from business cards and stationery to digital ads and physical stores. This strengthens brand recall and trust.

3. Name your Medical Scrubs Business

Your business name plays a pivotal role in setting the stage for your brand’s perception. 

• Brainstorm: Begin by jotting down a plethora of names, leaning on creativity and relevance to the scrub industry.
• Meaning and Relevance: The ideal name should resonate with the nature of your business. It could be direct like “HealWear Scrubs” or abstract, drawing on themes of care or wellness.
• Legal Considerations: Once you’ve shortlisted a few favorites, check for trademarks and domain availability to ensure your chosen name is unique and legally available.

4. Find Financing

Having settled on a name for your venture, the next step in your journey is securing the necessary finances.

• Personal Savings: The simplest way to fund your startup is through your savings. This option eliminates the need for interest payments or giving up equity but requires a robust personal financial cushion.
• Bank Loans: Traditional bank loans or lines of credit are popular choices. They offer structured payment plans but necessitate a solid credit history and often require collateral.
• Investors: Angel investors or venture capitalists might be interested if you present a compelling business plan. While they can provide significant funds, they often seek equity or a say in business decisions.
• Crowdfunding: Platforms like Kickstarter or Indiegogo allow you to present your business idea to the public. In exchange for their financial support, backers might receive early bird discounts or exclusive merchandise.

5. Structure the Enterprise

Form a Business Entity

Decide on the legal structure that’s best suited for your business. Common options include Sole Proprietorship, Limited Liability Company (LLC), Corporation, or Partnership. Each has its tax implications, liability aspects, and administrative requirements.

Select your Location

Where you set up shop can influence sales, accessibility to suppliers, and operational costs. Consider factors like foot traffic (for physical stores) to explain the problem of how to start a scrub line, ease of delivery, rent, and proximity to medical institutions. 

To open an online store, a platform like Shopify may be the perfect choice for you. 

Set up Your Accounting and Taxes System

Implement an efficient accounting system, either through software like QuickBooks or by hiring an accountant. Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal tax obligations. For example, “how to start a sugar scrub business” exercise demands the process of setting the accounting and taxes system.

Open a Business Bank Account

Separate your personal finances from your business by opening a dedicated bank account. This aids in tracking expenses, calculating taxes, and managing payroll.

Apply for Business Licenses and Permits

Depending on your location and the nature of your business, various permits might be required. These could range from a general business license to health permits if you’re producing the scrubs.

Get Business Insurance

Protect your venture from unforeseen challenges. Common insurance types for retail businesses include general liability insurance, product liability insurance, and workers’ compensation insurance if you have employees.

6. Purchase Equipment, Software, Supplies & Tools Needed

Equipment and Supplies

• Fabric and Materials: High-quality fabrics suitable for medical wear, such as cotton, polyester blends, and microfiber.
• Sewing Machines: Invest in commercial-grade sewing machines that can withstand bulk orders.
• Cutting Tools: Precision cutting equipment for fabrics.
• Storage Solutions: Shelving, racks, and bins for storing raw materials, finished products, and shipping supplies.

Software

• Accounting Software: Platforms like QuickBooks or Xero can help manage finances, invoicing, and payroll.
• Inventory Management: Systems like Square for Retail or Shopify will help track products, sales, and restocks efficiently.
• CRM: Tools like HubSpot or Salesforce for customer relationship management, to track and enhance customer interactions.
• E-commerce Platform: If selling online, platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, or BigCommerce can help set up an online store.

Tools for Marketing and Sales

• POS Systems: Point-of-sale systems for physical storefronts to process sales.
• Graphic Design Tools: Software like Adobe Creative Suite for designing promotional materials.
• Digital Marketing Tools: For online promotions, consider tools like Mailchimp for email marketing and Hootsuite for social media management.

Miscellaneous

• Quality Control Tools: Equipment to check the quality and consistency of the scrubs.
• Packaging: Branded packaging supplies, shipping boxes, and label printers for a professional unboxing experience.
• Workstations: Depending on the size of your operations, designated spaces or tables for different stages of the production process.

7. Launch your Business

Once you’ve secured your foundation, inventory, and tools, it’s time for the exciting part – launching your scrub business.

• Soft Launch: Before going big, consider a soft launch. This can be among friends, family, or a small group of potential customers. It will help identify any issues and garner initial feedback.
• Grand Opening: Organize an event, either at your physical location or virtually, to announce your business to a wider audience. Offer promotions or discounts to attract initial customers.
• Online Presence: Activate your business website and e-commerce platform. Ensure all products are listed, payment gateways are functional, and customer support is in place.
• Social Media Campaigns: Create a buzz on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. Use relevant hashtags, eye-catching visuals, and engage influencers in the medical field to promote your brand.
• Local Collaborations: Partner with local clinics, hospitals, or medical institutions for exclusive deals or supply contracts. Hosting pop-up stands at medical conferences or events can also help in direct marketing.
• Press Releases: Send out press releases to local newspapers, magazines, and online portals, announcing the launch and highlighting what sets your scrubs apart.
• Customer Engagement: Use loyalty programs, referral discounts, or feedback incentives to keep early customers engaged and to encourage word-of-mouth marketing.
• Monitor and Iterate: Utilize tools like Google Analytics for your website or gather in-store feedback to understand customer behavior. Continuously adapt based on the data and feedback you receive.

8. Get your Marketing Plan

With your business officially launched, it’s vital to keep the momentum going. To ensure you consistently reach your target audience and boost sales and for instance answer the question “How to start a medical scrub business?” successfully, a well-thought-out marketing plan is essential.

• Understand Your Audience: Identify your target demographic. Are they nurses in local clinics, surgeons in large hospitals, or students in medical schools? Understanding your audience will guide your marketing strategies.
• Brand Consistency: Whether it’s on social media, your website, or in-store, ensure your brand’s voice, visuals, and message remain consistent.
• Content Marketing: Start a blog or release articles related to the medical field, the importance of comfortable scrubs, or care instructions. This not only establishes authority but also improves SEO for your website.
• Social Media Strategy: Post regularly on platforms relevant to your audience. Engage with followers, conduct polls, or Q&A sessions. Use paid advertisements for wider reach and promotions.
• Email Marketing: Build a subscriber list. Send out newsletters, exclusive offers, and updates. Tools like Mailchimp can automate and streamline this process.
• Collaborate and Partner: Work with influencers in the medical community for product reviews or partnerships. Collaborate with medical institutions for exclusive deals or sponsorship at events.
• Attend Trade Shows: Showcase your products at medical trade shows or industry-specific events. It’s a direct way to network and garner feedback.
• Loyalty Programs: Reward repeat customers with loyalty points or referral bonuses. This encourages repeat business and word-of-mouth recommendations.
• Feedback and Reviews: Encourage customers to leave reviews online. Positive reviews can significantly boost credibility, while constructive criticism can offer insights for improvement.
• Track and Analyze: Utilize analytics tools to monitor the effectiveness of your marketing campaigns. Understand what’s working and what’s not, and adjust strategies accordingly.

Examples of Successful Scrub Business Stories

FIGS

In the landscape of medical uniforms, FIGS stands out as a brilliant example of innovation meeting necessity. Founded in 2013, this Santa Monica-based company was the brainchild of Heather Hasson and Trina Spear, who now serve as co-CEOs. While the core product line of FIGS revolves around scrubs, it extends beyond that to a range of attire suited for healthcare professionals — from lab coats and activewear to loungewear.

What differentiates FIGS from other scrub brands is the quality and functionality they infuse into their products. Made from a proprietary material, their scrubs boast features such as antimicrobial properties for odor resistance, four-way stretch for maximum comfort, and practical pockets to aid healthcare professionals during their hectic shifts.

But the strategy that really escalated FIGS to its esteemed position is its direct-to-consumer model. Bypassing the traditional retail route, all of FIGS’ sales happen online via their official website. This not only offers them better control over the customer experience but also significantly reduces overhead costs. Their approach has reaped immense rewards, with the company forecasting an impressive revenue of over $250 million in 2020, primarily attributed to their top-tier scrubs. Supporting their online sales operations is their strategically located warehouse in the City of Industry, California.

FIGS serves as a testament to the potential of the scrub business when innovation, quality, and astute business strategies converge.

Scrubs Unlimited

Tucked away in the bustling heart of Westwood, CA, Scrubs Unlimited stands as a beacon of success in the medical uniforms industry. Established in 2000, this business has carved out a niche for itself, primarily specializing in supplying medical scrub uniforms in bulk quantities. Their two-decade journey showcases a track record of commitment and adaptation, crucial traits in the ever-evolving world of fashion and healthcare.

While their core offering revolves around scrubs, Scrubs Unlimited doesn’t limit itself to just that. Their diverse product range extends to lab coats, medical shoes, and other essential accessories that healthcare professionals need in their daily routines. Their comprehensive collection is a testament to their understanding of the medical community’s needs and their commitment to catering to those needs efficiently.

Today, Scrubs Unlimited isn’t just another store in Westwood; it’s a significant player in the medical scrubs industry trend. With its dedication to quality, vast product range, and keen business acumen, it showcases the immense potential the scrub business holds and serves as an inspiration for budding entrepreneurs in this segment.

How To Start A Scrub Business: FAQs

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding how to start a scrub business requires careful planning, dedication, and a keen sense of the market’s needs, but with the right steps in place, it promises a rewarding venture in the healthcare apparel industry.