We are delighted to share some updates from Q3 2025 that underline our work to build a stronger UK fashion and textile industry.

UKFT Q3 2025 – REPORT

Highlights from Q3 2025 include:

VOICE & ADVOCACY: Our policy engagement remains active and influential. We have worked closely with ministers and officials on:

• Trade: Securing support for SMEs and inputting on the India FTA, US tariffs and EU trade issues.
• Skills: Warning of apprenticeship funding risks and proposing system reforms.
• Sustainability: Shaping DEFRA’s decarbonisation strategy, advocating for a UK textiles EPR, and influencing Climate Change Levy targets.
• Procurement: Supporting members in defence and technical textiles through a new working group and participation in DSEI.
• Through Euratex and the American Apparel & Footwear Association, we continue to shape global regulatory and trade frameworks, ensuring the UK’s voice is heard internationally.

MEMBERSHIP & ENGAGEMENT: We are delighted that our membership continues to grow, welcoming new members this quarter particularly in retail, innovation and recycling/reuse. Engagement levels remain high, with 36 member spotlights, more than 35 company visits, and 10 webinars covering topics from EPR and ESPR to brand development and market access. We published 11 new member resources, launched the Marketing Mornings series for small teams, and continued to provide trend insights through Peclers Paris.

INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS: Our international focus has delivered strong results. With the Department for Business and Trade and support from the Clothworkers’ Company, UKFT stands at Intertextile Shanghai generated significant interest, while our Discover British Brands in Paris initiative will showcase 120 UK labels at Paris Fashion Week. We are providing detailed guidance on US tariff and De Minimis changes and supporting members in navigating challenging market conditions.

COMPLIANCE: Compliance remains a growing priority. This quarter saw record attendance at Compliance 101 webinars, new resources on labelling and testing, and direct member support that has helped businesses avoid unnecessary costs. Looking ahead, we are preparing members for major regulatory changes including the Product Regulation and Metrology Act (PRAM), EU labelling reforms, and Digital Product Passports.

SKILLS & TRAINING: We have secured key qualifications and launched new routes for progression. The Production Sewing Machinist programme continues to expand, with 139 enrolments and 72 certifications to date. Three new SVQs have been accredited in Scotland, and we are developing new CPD, degree and postgraduate opportunities, alongside live job initiatives to strengthen the talent pipeline.

INNOVATION & SUSTAINABILITY: Sustainability remains at the core of our strategy. In Q3 we launched Innovation Membership, hosted Sustainability 101sessions, supported due diligence initiatives and advanced research on textile flows and compliance systems. A biotech innovation workshop and active participation in global sustainability forums are helping position UKFT and its members at the forefront of responsible textile development.

Keep reading to learn more about these exciting initiatives and feel free to get in touch out if there are further ways we can help you. Thank you for your ongoing support!

UKFT Q3 2025 – REPORT

For member access to webinars, resources and other support, please email info@ukft.org.

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