The UK Fashion and Textile Association (UKFT) will be promoting British textiles at the 50th edition of JITAC, the European Textile Fair held from 12 -14 March 2025 at the Industrial Trade Center Hamamatsucho in Tokyo to highlight the incredible talent, innovation and quality that define British textile design and manufacturing.

FIND OUT MORE: Discover British Textiles in Japan

The show, organised by THE JITAC Association (The Japan Imported Textiles Agency Council), offers a platform for international buyers to explore the UK textile sector’s tradition, innovation and creative flair.

UKFT’s stand showcases samples from a selected number of UK firms including wool textiles, waxed fabrics, tartans, kilt fabrics, fancy fabrics, silk, linen and buttons. UKFT has produced a booklet in English and Japanese to explain the work of the UK textile mills to the Japanese audience as well as the UK’s commitment to sustainability and technical excellence. Companies featured include Alfred Brown, Bower Roebuck, British Millerain, Clissold, Courtney Button Company, Fox Flannels, Halley Stevensons, Harris Tweed Hebrides, House of Edgar, Laurent Garigue, Liberty Fabrics, Linton Tweeds, Lochcarron, Magee, Maison Henry Bertrand, Mallalieus, Marton Mills, Moon, Pongees, Spence Bryson and Stephen Walters.

Visitors can learn more about the UK textile industry and watch a new film that tells the story of great British style underpinned by tradition, quality and craftsmanship. ‘UK Fashion & Textiles: It’s what we’re made of’ brings to life the innovation, responsibility and ethical practices that lie at the heart of our ethos.

The UK apparel and textile industry is renowned for its rich heritage, cutting-edge design and commitment to sustainability and innovation. At JITAC, we will highlight the latest trends, sustainable fabrics and revolutionary technologies that highlight the creativity and craftsmanship of UK brands.

Dan Connolly, Senior Executive at UKFT, said: “The UK textile industry stands out in the global market due to our emphasis on quality, innovation and unique British style. Our competitive advantage lies in our ability to merge tradition with contemporary trends, offering products that are not only stylish but also ethically produced. This commitment to excellence and sustainability resonates well with consumers in the Japanese market and beyond, helping us build strong, lasting relationships.”

FIND OUT MORE: Discover British Textiles in Japan

Follow UKFT on Instagram @ukftorg for more information on the companies exhibiting internationally this season, or click on the link below to find out more about our international tradeshow activity:

Discover British Textiles

Why designers and brands love working with British fabrics

UK fabrics are highly sought after by the world’s most prestigious designers, tailors and fashion brands as the starting point for their collections, while our homegrown flair for printed, woven, knitted and embroidered textile design blends creativity with commerciality.

Heritage and tradition:

• Deep-rooted history in textile craftsmanship.
• Preservation of traditional skills and techniques.
• Association with iconic fabrics like Harris Tweed and flannel.

Quality and craftsmanship:

• Impeccable craftsmanship and quality assurance.
• High standards in production resulting in durable and reliable fabrics.
• Unique character and authenticity embedded in the fabrics.

Innovation and adaptability:

• Continuous innovation within established producers.
• Adapting traditional techniques to create modern and sustainable textiles.
• Embracing new materials and blends while maintaining quality.

Sustainability and ethical production:

• Focus on sustainable practices, including the use of natural fibres, certified and recycled materials.
• Localised production contributing to lower carbon footprints.
• Commitment to ethical production methods.

Provenance and local sourcing:

• Strong emphasis on locally-sourced materials.
• Celebrating regional mills and their specialised, high-quality outputs.
• Contribution to maintaining and supporting local economies and craftsmanship.

Timelessness and cultural value:

• British fabrics are celebrated for their timeless appeal.
• Embody a sense of cultural heritage and historical significance.
• Highly valued for their distinct character and aesthetic appeal in fashion and accessories.

Versatility and practicality:

• Suitable for a wide range of applications, from high fashion to practical outerwear.
• Renowned for versatility, particularly in materials like wool which offer natural, unmatched qualities.