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.
Confirmed speakers include:
Mark Jarvis
Chief Strategy Officer, Fibre2Fashion
Hear from Mark Jarvis, who leads strategic development and revenue growth at Fibre2Fashion. Mark will explore "The Productivity Imperative: Securing the Future of UK Weaving", sharing key insights into the challenges and opportunities shaping the sector's future.
Hannah Brown
Weaving Prep Production Manager, Heathcoat Fabrics
Hannah Brown, Weaving Prep Production Manager at Heathcoat Fabrics will share how small, practical improvements can deliver meaningful gains in productivity, quality, and engagement from the weaving shop floor, in her session, "Small Changes, Big Impact: Keeping Change Simple”
Jeffrey Vandenbulcke
Area Sales Manager, Vandewiele nv
Jeffrey Vandenbulcke is Area Sales Manager at Vandewiele. In his session, "Technology in Action: Machinery Driving Productivity Today", he will showcase how the latest machinery innovations are helping manufacturers boost productivity, enhance flexibility, and meet the evolving demands of the textile industry.
Laura Hayes
Commercial Lead, Gemell
Hear from Laura Hayes, who is the Strategic Partnerships and Commercial Lead at Gemell. Laura will explore “Innovation applied – Solving Manufacturing challenges through bespoke technology” in her session.
Paul Mendis
Founder and CEO of PMSS Academy of Advanced Manufacturing
Paul Mendis , Founder and CEO of PMSS Academy of Advanced Manufacturing will speak across 2 session, including "Innovation applied: Solving manufacturing challenges through bespoke technology" and "The productivity ecosystem: Powering growth on and beyond the factory floor” sharing his expertise in manufacturing digitisation.
