In a rapidly changing landscape shaped by evolving legislation, international trade challenges, sustainability ambitions and skills shortages, members are looking for more than just information. They want practical support, meaningful connections and a collective voice. They want to learn from peers, collaborate across the supply chain and help shape the future of the industry.
Recent member feedback highlights several recurring themes: access to expert advice, support with compliance and regulation, opportunities to network and collaborate, knowledge sharing across the industry, and a shared commitment to building a more resilient and sustainable UK fashion and textile sector.
A trusted source of practical expertise
For many businesses, UKFT has become a trusted partner for navigating the day-to-day challenges of running and growing a business.
Emerging childrenswear brand Ginger Autumn describes UKFT as a "one-stop shop", providing practical guidance on everything from packaging and legislation to sourcing fabric suppliers and finding specialist accountants. As a young business entering a complex industry, having access to expert advice and experienced contacts has proved invaluable.
House of Cheviot also joined seeking support with increasingly complex compliance requirements. While regulatory guidance was the initial motivation, the company says it quickly discovered a much broader range of resources and support from a team that is deeply invested in protecting and promoting British-made textiles.
Similarly, Islander values UKFT's expertise as it expands its retail, wholesale, workshop and international operations, particularly in areas such as product labelling, compliance and global trade.
Navigating change together
Many members recognise that businesses are facing common challenges that are difficult to tackle alone. Many global brands join UKFT to access policy and regulatory support, often around changing UK legislation. As the UK is no longer part of the EU, UK legislation does not directly align with EU dates and policy. As the leading trade association for the sector, UKFT provides a comprehensive overview of UK regulatory developments.
Often large UK fashion and retail brands seek guidance from UKFT on horizon scanning for upcoming legislation across global markets. Quarterly policy and regulation roundtables provide a platform to gather with peers to discuss challenges and share best practice.
Luxury brand Derek Rose joined UKFT to gain practical support while strengthening the collective voice of British fashion businesses as they navigate an increasingly unpredictable trading environment, from tariffs and international trade to changing consumer markets.
Packing specialist Tagit echoes this sentiment, highlighting the importance of keeping pace with new legislation, regulatory developments and industry best practice. For the company, sharing knowledge and collaborating across the supply chain will be essential to supporting customers and building a stronger future for the sector.
The value of community
Perhaps the strongest theme running through every member's experience is the importance of community.
Whether businesses are looking for technical advice, strategic guidance, industry intelligence or opportunities to collaborate, they consistently describe UKFT as a place where knowledge is shared openly and relationships are built across the fashion and textile supply chain.
UKFT acts as a voice for larger brands, feeding back to key government stakeholders, UK, EU, otherwise on policy changes and trading challenges. The association can also ensure that smaller brands can make their voices heard in important debates and developments that affect the sector.
As House of Cheviot reflects, "there is power in the collective" – a sentiment that resonates across businesses of every size and specialism.
Building a more sustainable industry
Sustainability and circularity continue to be major drivers for many new members.
Arda Biomaterials joined UKFT to connect with brands, manufacturers and innovators working to build a more circular textile industry as it prepares to bring its New Grain biomaterial to market.
For textile recycling specialist Two Lives, UKFT provides an opportunity to work with organisations across the fashion and textile value chain, contribute to industry-wide sustainability conversations and collaborate on practical solutions that help accelerate the transition to a more circular economy.
These members demonstrate how collaboration is becoming increasingly important as businesses work together to reduce waste, develop new materials and embed more responsible practices throughout the supply chain.
Sharing knowledge to strengthen UK manufacturing
Collaboration extends beyond sustainability into manufacturing, innovation and workforce development.
Specialised Covers joined UKFT because it believes the UK textile industry is strongest when manufacturers share knowledge and experience. The company is particularly keen to contribute to discussions around advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence and addressing the industry's growing skills shortage.
Across the membership, there is a growing recognition that sharing expertise benefits not only individual businesses but also the wider sector.
From supporting emerging brands through their first steps to helping established businesses navigate global markets, UKFT continues to bring together organisations committed to creating a stronger, more competitive and more sustainable UK fashion and textile industry.
Interested in being part of the largest network for fashion and textiles in the UK? Find out more at the link below or email info@ukft.org to book a call with our team.
