UKFT launches the Responsible UK Fashion and Textile Supply Chains report
19/03/2025
UKFT has published a new report on Responsible UK Fashion and Textile Supply Chains, following workshops with brands and retailers, textile and garment manufacturers, and social and ethical compliance experts. The report is a key step in supporting the UK fashion and textile ecosystem’s reshoring efforts. It identifies practical solutions and opportunities to drive positive change for manufacturers, brands and retailers alike.
The report aims to strengthen social and ethical compliance practices within UK fashion and textile manufacturing to boost domestic production.
Adam Mansell, CEO of UKFT, said:
“As global supply chains undergo rapid changes, regulatory requirements grow, and businesses aim for ambitious sustainability goals, the opportunities for UK fashion and textile manufacturing have never been greater. Through extensive consultations with stakeholders across the UK fashion and textile supply chain, we have gathered valuable insights to help the industry improve social and ethical compliance practices in UK manufacturing which are outlined in this report. This understanding is key to increasing domestic manufacturing capacity that can meet the evolving needs of the retail market, unlock new opportunities and address the unique challenges faced by UK manufacturers.”
Based on extensive stakeholder input, the report identifies opportunities in five key areas: legislation and policy, training and education, demystifying standards, tools and systems, and incentives and funding. These recommendations, shaped by industry expertise, will help position UK as a leader in responsible fashion and textile manufacturing, building on its commitment to ethical and sustainable practices.
This report has been developed by UKFT with the support from UK Research & Innovation (UKRI) and the Circular Fashion Innovation Network. It is part of the sustainable manufacturing pillar, which also includes projects and interventions to explore volume manufacturing in the UK, enhance existing UK manufacturing capacity and decarbonise manufacturing. Find out more here.
“We know that brands and retailers are increasingly looking into local manufacturing solutions, and UK manufacturers are exploring ways to expand production and increase capacity,” added Mansell. “The benefits of domestic sourcing are clear – greater responsiveness, flexibility, a smaller carbon footprint, and improved visibility into manufacturing environments. By addressing the social and ethical compliance landscape, we can fully unlock these opportunities and drive positive growth for the manufacturing industry here in the UK.”
The insights and recommendations will help create the conditions necessary for UK manufacturing to thrive, supporting the Circular Fashion Innovation Network’s vision of an innovative and responsible sector.