This is the UK’s only conference dedicated exclusively to innovation, technology and productivity in weaving manufacturing.

The weaving sector stands at a pivotal moment. Rising operational costs, global competition, changing customer expectations and rapid advances in automation, digitisation and AI are redefining what competitive manufacturing looks like.

UKFT Weaving Conference 2026 – Innovating for Productivity – brings together industry leaders, technology experts, researchers and manufacturers for a full day of insight, innovation and practical solutions designed to help weaving businesses improve efficiency, strengthen competitiveness and prepare for the future.

This flagship event will unite delegates from across apparel and technical textiles, in defence, fashion, medical, interior, automotive, aerospace, construction, leisure and advanced manufacturing sectors, creating a unique forum for knowledge sharing, strategic discussion and meaningful industry connections.

Why attend? Discover:

• The economic, policy and market forces shaping the future of UK manufacturing
• The latest weaving machinery, automation and smart factory technologies
• How AI, robotics and digitisation can improve operational productivity
• Cross-sector manufacturing innovations that can be adapted for textile production
• Emerging research and breakthrough technologies shaping the mills and manufacturers of tomorrow
• Funding, energy and operational expertise available to support business transformation
• What brands and buyers will expect from suppliers in the years ahead
• Real-world case studies from pioneering textile manufacturers embracing innovation

Hear from leading organisations

Featuring speakers, case studies and panel discussions with experts from organisations including: UKFT • Picanol • Vandewiele • Tsudakoma • Heathcoat Fabrics • Manufacturing Technology Centre • Abraham Moon & Sons • Marks & Spencer • Alex Begg • Margaret Howell…and more, to be announced.

Designed for:

• Manufacturers & mill owners
• CEOs & senior leadership teams
• Technical directors & innovation leads
• Production & operations managers
• SMEs and large-scale manufacturers
• Supply chain partners, researchers and sector stakeholders

Connect, learn, collaborate

With dedicated networking over coffee and lunch, this is a rare opportunity to meet peers, suppliers, technology partners and key decision-makers from across the UK textile manufacturing landscape.

If your business is focused on productivity, competitiveness and future-proofing operations, this is an event not to be missed.

The UKFT Weaving Conference will be followed by a networking dinner which will be a great opportunity to catch up and continue conversations with industry colleagues.

Dress code: Smart casual.

Cedar Court Hotel is offering a preferential rate of £115 for a single occupancy double room which includes breakfast and parking. Please contact the hotel reservations team on (01422) 375431 (opt 1) or email reservations.huddersfield@cedarcourthotels.co.uk and quote UKF071026 to receive this rate before 9 September.

Refunds for the UKFT Weaving Conference and Dinner will not be accepted.