UKFT is pleased to announce that it will take over the management of Textiles Scotland (STLA) effective 1 January 2019, following a unanimous vote by STLA members and lengthy discussions between the two organisations.

UKFT and STLA have strong historical links and the move provides new opportunities for Scottish companies by being part of a wider network while retaining a national, Scottish focus.

The Textiles Scotland branding will be continued, as will the Scottish focus of the activities, support and government lobbying.

From 1 January 2019, existing Textiles Scotland members will be transferred to a new company called UKFT Scotland.

UKFT Scotland will join the main UKFT board and UKFT CEO Adam Mansell will join the Scottish Industry Leadership Group.

UKFT will be working with the industry to develop a new membership offer that will help Textiles Scotland become a self-sustaining organisation, including using its expertise to develop an export strategy and a skills strategy for Scottish members.

James Lang, Chairman of Textiles Scotland, said: “UKFT’s commitment to working with the industry to deliver our current plan of activity, while plugging into a wider fashion, leather and textiles network makes it a perfect partner for Textiles Scotland. This new partnership allows us to focus on high-value growth opportunities in international markets and adopt an industry-wide approach, which is genuinely committed to innovation and best practice to ensure future success.”

Nigel Lugg, Chairman of UKFT, said: “We are delighted to welcome Textiles Scotland into the wider UKFT community and look forward to expanding our support services to address the needs of our new Scottish members, focused on leadership, innovation, internationalisation, skills and investment. This transaction will ensure that Scottish companies have a national and international voice and significantly furthers our aim of creating a highly profitable and productive UK fashion and textiles industry.”

UKFT’s members include some of the UK’s most well-known fashion and textile brands, heritage success stories and emerging designer labels, alongside the manufacturers and suppliers that turn those designs into a reality.

Like the businesses it represents, UKFT has transformed in recent years to meet the demands of today’s vibrant, dynamic industry and our most important task is to ensure that we create the right environment for the fashion and textile sector to thrive for many years to come.