In the fast-paced world of the apparel industry, milestones like a 20-year work anniversary are rare and worthy of recognition. Jon Edberg, COBMEX^® Executive Vice President, is celebrating two decades of dedication, growth, and leadership at COBMEX^®. Born and raised in Toronto, Jon’s path from a part-time job to a key executive role showcases his drive and passion for the uniform industry.

 

Jon’s Journey at COBMEX®

Jon’s story begins in Toronto, surrounded by family and friends deeply rooted in the apparel industry. After high school, Jon took time off to travel overseas, exploring new cultures and gaining valuable life experiences. Upon his return in 2004, Jon joined COBMEX^® part-time, contemplating his future career. Though he initially aspired to be a lawyer, Jon’s fascination with the uniform industry quickly took hold, setting the stage for a remarkable career. Jon’s business travels took him across Asia, Europe, and North America, where he gained a comprehensive understanding of both sales and manufacturing.

From Sales Representative to Sales Director and eventually Executive Vice President in 2020, Jon’s rise through the ranks at COBMEX^® was swift and impressive. Under the mentorship of Phil, President and CEO of COBMEX^®, Jon immersed himself in the manufacturing process, learning the intricacies that make up every fiber of COBMEX^®’s uniform sweaters. “Phil’s mentorship has had a profound influence on me, personally, in my career, and on my leadership style. With his guidance, I have developed a strong sense of direction and purpose in my professional life,” Jon explains.

 

Phil Newman reflects on Jon’s growth and the significant impact he has had on both COBMEX^® and the people around him: “Watching Jon grow over the past 20 years has been one of the great pleasures of my life, from both a personal and business perspective. For 20 years I have marvelled at his energy, enthusiasm, and his ability to improve in every aspect of his life and career. Jon is an inspiration to those around him and he continues to motivate and inspire me daily.”

 

Jon’s deep product knowledge and expertise have provided him with the credibility needed to foster strong, trusting relationships with our clients and industry partners. His hands-on involvement in product development and manufacturing effectively boosts his impact and influence in the market.

He credits Phil with teaching him the importance of problem-solving, strategic thinking, and leading by example—principles that have become cornerstones of Jon’s leadership approach: “Integrity is at the forefront of how I do things, which Phil always reiterated and instilled in me.”

 

Pricila Neal, Senior Director, Design and Product, reflects on Jon’s impact: “I have had the opportunity to work directly with Jon for the last 7 years. His integrity and commitment to excellence has been the driving force behind everything we do at COBMEX^®. I have no doubt that his successful career is in part due to his passion for the business and ability to deal with everyday challenges.”

 

Achievements and Pivotal Moments

Jon’s contributions to COBMEX^® have been pivotal. He has consistently exceeded sales targets, expanded the company’s customer base globally, and further developed its manufacturing capabilities. Jon played a pivotal role in developing manufacturing capabilities in Asia and the United States, leading key initiatives that strengthened COBMEX^®’s global supply chain.

 

Michael Smith, President of Unisync, shares how Jon’s influence has extended beyond COBMEX^®: “After nearly 15 years of working with Jon, he’s become much more than just a supplier—he’s a true friend. Jon’s passion for the business and relentless drive to push boundaries have not only shaped his own company into what it is today but have also had a lasting impact on ours. His incredible product knowledge, dedication, and hard work consistently elevate our business, and we’re better for it. Congratulations on 20 years of outstanding service, Jon—here’s to many more years of success together!”

 

Jon has consistently driven advancements in product development, ensuring COBMEX® remains at the forefront of the industry. His leadership was crucial in the development of innovative styles, such as our Fleece Lined Public Safety Sweaters, and the COBMEX^® Contemporary Collection, a knitwear collection meeting the evolving needs of the modern workforce.

Reflecting on his journey, Jon recalls several crucial moments, including winning the 2018 Network Association of Uniform Manufacturers and Distributors (NAUMD) Rising Star Award and being offered his first shares in the business by Phil. “Phil offering me shares in the business was a defining moment that solidified my commitment to COBMEX^® and the uniform industry,” Jon explains.

 

 

His election to the Board of Directors of the NAUMD and subsequent appointment to the Executive Committee underscores his growing influence in the industry. “Being elected to the Executive Committee of the NAUMD highlighted the trust and responsibility placed in me by my peers in the industry,” Jon reflects.

 

Rick Levine, Executive Director of the NAUMD, acknowledges Jon’s industry-wide impact: “I am proud to recognize Jon Edberg for his exceptional contributions to both our association and the uniform industry as a whole. Over the past 20 years at COBMEX^®, Jon has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to excellence, offering invaluable support, visionary leadership, and unwavering dedication. His work has not only elevated COBMEX^® but has also enriched our entire industry. We celebrate Jon’s remarkable journey and eagerly anticipate many more years of his outstanding contributions.”

 

Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Jon is focused on driving COBMEX^® forward by exploring new avenues for innovation and expanding the company’s market presence. He is particularly passionate about enhancing sustainability within the company, aiming to create products with a longer lifecycle. As part of his vision, Jon is committed to pioneering new, sustainable materials and incorporating them into future COBMEX® Collections. “My vision for COBMEX^® is centered on pushing the boundaries of innovation and quality while implementing more sustainable practices in our supply chain,” Jon explains. He is committed to deepening client relationships by continuing to integrate customer feedback into the product development process.

As Jon looks to the future of the uniform industry, he anticipates significant developments driven by technological innovations, sustainability trends, and evolving workplace dynamics. “The uniform industry is poised for major advancements over the next decade, and COBMEX^® will continue to lead in our market segment,” Jon states. “We will also continue to diversify and explore new and innovative sustainable products that we can bring to the global market.”

 

Jon’s 20-year journey at COBMEX^® is a celebration of dedication, passion, and exemplary leadership. In his role as Executive Vice President, Jon has continuously driven innovation and growth, leaving a lasting impact on both COBMEX^® and the wider uniform industry.

As we celebrate this achievement, we not only honor Jon’s past contributions but also embrace the promising future he envisions for COBMEX^®. With a commitment to sustainability, innovation, and strengthening client relationships, Jon is poised to lead the company into its next chapter of success.

Here’s to Jon—two decades strong, and with many more to come. Congratulations!