August 10: A Celebration of the Amazing Real Animal Behind Our Logo

It is a big month for us here at Roscoe where we are celebrating 100 years in business as Chicago’s family-owned, independent work uniform provider. As our motto suggests, it’s an accomplishment in which we “Take Pride.”

But this year we are taking the opportunity to share the spotlight with a pride of another sort: August 10 is World Lion Day and an opportunity to honor one of the most amazing species on the planet.  Lions have long captured the imagination and curiosity of humans, who see in them a symbol for courage, tenacity, leadership, ferocity, and of course, pride.

But what has really been courageous, tenacious and fierce are the efforts of the researchers, conservationists and animal protectors across the planet working to ensure the safety and survival of these great animals. At Chicago’s Lincoln Park Zoo, science and conservation is the real mission behind the landmark institution that millions of Chicagoans and visitors have enjoyed since 1868.

So we are thrilled to be able to contribute to the zoo’s state-of-the-art lion habitat makeover –scheduled to open this fall. World Lion Day is a great opportunity to acknowledge the worldwide conservation efforts of the Lincoln Park Zoo and others working to protect these animals.

The Story Behind the Roscoe Lion

The Roscoe lion that stands in graceful silhouette against the bright orange background of our logo came about during a rebranding effort in 2008. Company-wide brainstorming led us to the conclusion that what really differentiated our customer-focused business were the efforts of an incredible team that took pride in doing a great job.

The result was the “Take Pride” motto and our current lion-themed logo, which replaced one that depicted a symbol of waves.

 

“You can’t say ‘Take Pride’ and put less of a product in shirts, mats, coats, and wipers out on the street. You can’t make that bold statement unless everyone on your team lives up to the image in how they perform in the plant and work with customers.”

-Roscoe President Jim Buik

“The lion is regal, symbolic of a company with great people who take pride in doing a good job for our customers,” President Jim Buik said at the time. “You can’t say ‘Take Pride’ and put less of a product in shirts, mats, coats, and wipers out on the street. You can’t make that bold statement unless everyone on your team lives up to the image in how they perform in the plant and work with customers. And you have to live up to it in how you work with fellow team members. This is all about raising the bar and being dramatic, bold, and creative.”

Today, as we celebrate our 100^th anniversary, the theme feels as fresh as ever.  While our lion may be just a symbol, it’s a part of what has built this company into the success we enjoy today – success that enables our commitment to and support of community institutions like the Lincoln Park Zoo.

Join Roscoe in Supporting the Work of the Lincoln Park Zoo

Join us in celebrating World Lion Day with a commitment to the work of this one-of-a-kind institution, which offers free admission every day of the year. Your donation helps ensure the ability of future generations to enjoy this unique experience. Stop by soon and visit the incredible new lion habitat.

And as always, thank you to all of our customers for helping us celebrate 100 years of business and pride in the city we love.

Contact us to learn more about our work uniform rental services