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The voice of UK fashion and textiles – Raising member issues with government

29/08/2024

As members of our vibrant and engaged UK fashion and textile community, your feedback is essential in helping to shape the policies and decisions that impact our trading environment.

The UK fashion and textile industry directly supports a £62 billion contribution to UK GDP, 1.3 million jobs across the country and raises more than £23 billion in tax revenue, according to a recent report from UKFT and Oxford Economics.

Our collective input can make a difference

 

We have identified four key areas which, if addressed, could mean our sector could grow much further. UKFT is starting to have meetings with new Ministers from across a range of government departments. We want to hear from you on:

  • Is there anything we have missed?
  • Have you got any specific examples of how these areas have impacted your business, positively or negatively?

Members can email info@ukft.org with any issues you want to raise or to provide examples to support our work.

Our key asks and focus areas

We campaign on a wide range of issues on behalf of the whole UK fashion and textile supply chain, encompassing designers, brands and retailers, through to manufacturers, suppliers, educators and beyond. Here is a summary of our key priorities and focus

International Business

  • Restore export support
  • Make Brexit work
  • Join PEM Convention

Skills & Education

  • Unlock funding for specialist training
  • Support SME training
  • Teach making skills at school

Sustainability & Innovation

  • Develop industry-led EPR scheme
  • Establish industry-led national textile recycling infrastructure
  • Reintroduce effective R&D tax credits

UK Manufacturing

  • Boost UK manufacturing with public procurement
  • Establish Capex grants for UK manufacturing
  • Reinstate UK VAT refund scheme

*Please note, this is not an exhaustive summary.

UKFT: VOICE OF THE INDUSTRY

The UK Fashion & Textile Association (UKFT) is committed to delivering sustainable growth for the entire UK fashion and textile supply chain. We bring together brands, designers, manufacturers, suppliers, educators and retailers to promote their businesses and our industry, both in the UK and throughout the world.

Our members produce fashion and accessories for every segment of the retail market, as well as for airlines, banks and the armed forces. UKFT’s textile members produce yarns and fabric used in an astonishing array of end markets – from designer trainers to the transport system and from industrial filters to tennis balls.

Our members range in size from small and local producers up to global super brands, but what they have in common is a commitment to supporting the growth of the entire UK fashion and textile supply chain. Interested in joining us? Find out more here.

Members: We want to hear from you

What issues do you believe the government needs to tackle? Together, we can ensure that our voices are heard and our concerns are addressed. Your input is invaluable – let’s work together to shape a better future for all.

UKFT members: Email us at info@ukft.org