Productivity matters because it supports the promises a manufacturer makes to its customers. Lead times, consistency, flexibility, cost control, traceability and responsiveness all shape the strength of a supplier relationship.
The final conference session, ‘The Productivity Ecosystem’, opens with a brand panel on the future-ready woven supply chain. Catherine Olofsson, Debbie Huntley and Mica Philipps will contribute perspectives from Marks & Spencer, Pulsar and Margaret Howell.
The panel gives weaving businesses an opportunity to hear directly from organisations serving different markets and customer needs. Rather than treating productivity as a narrow measure of output, the discussion can connect factory decisions with the qualities brands increasingly prioritise across sourcing and supply.
The session then broadens to the conditions that support growth. Mili Tharakan will cover funding through Innovate UK and Jessica Armitage from Made Smarter will help businesses understand where external support may fit their investment plans.
Paul Mendis of PMSS Academy of Advanced Manufacturing will examine ‘The Hidden 5%’, encouraging delegates to look closely at smaller losses or overlooked opportunities that can accumulate across an operation.
For a manufacturer weighing several competing priorities, this combination is valuable. Customer expectations indicate where capability needs to move. Support and funding affect what is viable. Smarter systems and disciplined improvement determine whether an investment delivers in practice.
The conference offers a chance to hear these perspectives together, then test them through conversations with brands, peers, technology providers and support organisations. That joined-up view can help businesses leave with a more grounded set of priorities.
Secure your place now to hear the brand perspective and explore the commercial, funding and systems questions shaping woven supply chains.
Event details: 8 October 2026 | 9am–6pm, followed by networking dinner | Cedar Court Hotel, Huddersfield
Key Speakers
- Debbie Huntley is Sustainability Manager at Pulsar operating in the PPE sector, she applies a design and development background to drive more circular and responsible solutions. She has led the introduction of circular design principles, established collaborative research partnerships, and expanded knowledge by aligning with organizations beyond the PPE industry. She plays a key role in guiding Pulsar’s sustainability journey, using her experience as a researcher and designer to navigate sector barriers and influence meaningful change, balancing safety, performance, and circulatory across product development and wider business strategy.
With a long-standing history dating back to 1979, PULSAR® has set the standard for high-visibility protective workwear that delivers unbeatable protection, durability, and comfort in the toughest workplaces. Trusted by millions, its certified workwear pushes the limits of innovation to keep you safe and seen, no matter the job.
- Catherine Olofsson is Sustainability Lead for raw materials and circularity at M&S. Her role involves driving the uptake of more sustainably sourced materials and increasing transparency and traceability within M&S supply chains. Catherine also leads cross-functional initiatives that embed circularity into the heart of material sourcing, product design, and end-of-life strategies at M&S. Catherine has held various sourcing and sustainability roles previously at John Lewis, ASOS, Burberry and Beyond Retro.
Marks & Spencer (M&S) is one of the UK’s leading retailers, serving millions of customers through its Fashion, Home & Beauty and Food businesses. Founded in 1884, M&S is committed to delivering trusted quality, value and innovation while driving positive social and environmental impact through its Plan A sustainability programme.
- Mica Phillips, Sustainability Manager at Margaret Howell, has worked in fashion and sustainability for 10 years, with experience spanning across biodesign, organic certification and within fashion brands. Mica also holds a distinction MSc in Sustainability: Climate Change and Low Carbon Futures. She now leads the environmental and social sustainability strategy for Magaret Howell and is passionate about implementing positive change in the industry.
Margaret Howell is a respected British clothing designer creating collections for men and women. Established in 1970, Margaret Howell has developed an international reputation for timeless, thoughtfuland considered design. The clothing is inspired by authenticity found in nature, people and places.
