Cathay Pacific announced the 8 July launch for the roll out of the airline's new uniform to 13,000 staff worldwide, including more than 8,000 cabin crew and 4,000 staff working in airports, reservations and cargo teams around the network. A launch event was held at the Ritz Carlton - Hong Kong on June 22, hosted by Cathay Pacific CEO, John Slosar with the uniform's designer Eddie Lau also present. Over the past 60 years, Cathay Pacific has changed the uniforms for its customer-facing staff nine times. Each time, the uniforms were changed to keep the look fresh, current and relevant for the times as well as reflecting the airline's progressive nature. The new uniform continues the tradition of creating a stylish, elegant and unique look that's symbolic of a modern Asian airline which is respected worldwide for quality, style and gracious service. The new uniform is an "evolution" of the existing uniform, building on the signature elements of the current design and, at the same time, incorporating new elements that make a fashion statement and can also stand the test of time as each design has to last a minimum of 10 years. The signature features which will be maintained are: 1. Red - the brand heritage colour of the Cathay Pacific uniform; 2. Brush - wing logo; 3. Standing collar and cuffs; 4. Long skirts The uniform also takes into consideration the various working environments of the Cathay Pacific staff including the varied climates, cultural and religious sensitivities as well as health, security and safety regulations. The airline also took into account the need to minimise the environmental impact during the uniform's production. Speaking at the launch event, Slosar said: "Cathay Pacific is Hong Kong's home carrier and we are proud to be the ambassador for this Asia's World City. Our uniform represents us - our dynamic brand and our unique service style. We owe a huge vote of thanks to designer Eddie Lau who has worked so enthusiastically and creatively with our team to produce something that we think is really outstanding," he added. The new uniform, which took two years to develop, is the 10th uniform for Cathay Pacific. Throughout the design and development process, the project team consulted more than 100 Marco Polo members and 1,000 uniform staff. A wearer trial was conducted over a six-week period to ensure the new uniform is practical and functional for staff as well as meeting all occupational health and safety requirements.(mar) pic: cathaypacific