Sudbury-based Covergalls has entered into a new agreement with Mark’s Commercial, marking a significant step forward in providing workwear designed specifically for women in trades and heavy industries. This partnership will see Covergalls’ innovative designs, including coveralls, cargo pants, flame-resistant hoodies, and high-visibility workwear, distributed to all 383 Mark’s locations across Canada.
Mark’s Commercial, the business-to-business wholesale division of Mark’s, connects suppliers to a network of over 15,000 businesses nationwide. The agreement signifies a milestone for Covergalls, as their products, engineered to better fit the female form, will now have access to a broad and diverse customer base.
Tackling a Gap in Women’s Workwear
For years, women in trades like mining have voiced concerns about ill-fitting work apparel and personal protective equipment (PPE) designed predominantly with men in mind. These issues often lead to discomfort and even safety hazards.
Alicia Woods, who founded Covergalls in 2013, is no stranger to these challenges. Having worked in the mining industry herself, Woods experienced firsthand the frustration of ill-suited workwear. Her determination to address this gap led her to create Covergalls, a brand committed to providing functional, comfortable, and safe clothing options for women in demanding industries.
Woods’ entrepreneurial journey gained national attention when she pitched her idea on CBC’s Dragons’ Den, a popular Canadian television show. Her pitch was met with enthusiasm, securing partnerships with three of the show’s prominent investors, propelling Covergalls into the spotlight.
A Step Towards Inclusivity in Mining
In an industry traditionally dominated by men, the presence of women in mining is steadily growing. Women now represent 16% of the Canadian mining workforce, according to the Mining Industry Human Resources Council (MiHR). While this number is below the national average across all industries, it highlights meaningful progress in increasing diversity in mining—a field historically less inclusive. Initiatives like Covergalls, which address the unique needs of women in the workforce, are playing a pivotal role in this transformation by empowering women to thrive in male-dominated environments.
Nationwide Availability Through Mark’s
Mark’s Commercial’s extensive network ensures that Covergalls’ products will reach female workers from coast to coast. With 383 Mark’s retail locations, the partnership offers an opportunity for greater accessibility to workwear that meets both functional and safety standards for women in trades.
Covergalls’ popular offerings include:
- Coveralls tailored to fit women’s bodies, providing comfort and mobility.
- Cargo pants designed with practical storage and durability.
- Flame-resistant hoodies that combine safety and style.
- High-visibility workwear, ensuring compliance with safety regulations while offering a better fit.
Driving Change in Male-Dominated Industries
The partnership between Covergalls and Mark’s Commercial reflects a broader movement toward inclusivity and equity in male-dominated industries. By offering gear tailored for women, the companies are helping to remove barriers that have long existed for female professionals in the trades.
