UKFT has brought together a group of garment manufacturers and sampling units to exhibit at London-based fashion fabrics fair Textile Forum to support growing sourcing demands.

Textile Forum has welcomed a number of garment manufacturers to exhibit over the past few seasons and their presence has been well received by both visitors and fellow exhibitors.

This season, the group supported by UKFT offers a wide range of production capabilities, including pattern cutting, sampling and the creation of tech packs through to grading and full production runs across multiple categories.

The UK fashion industry has long been recognised around the world for its expertise and design talent and now increasingly for its high quality production capabilities too. UK manufacturing is currently enjoying a significant renaissance, encouraged by an increase in cost benefits, speed to market and the sustainability agenda.

The latest government statistics show that last year manufacturing employment in the UK rose for the first time in decades and investment is the highest it has been for many years.

“We have a great array of quality manufacturing capabilities to offer in this country which we are delighted to showcase here at Textile Forum this year,” said Adam Mansell, CEO of UKFT. “We hope to see this part of the show grow in future editions.”

“UKFT has supported Textile Forum since its inception in 2002 and we are delighted that the association is helping us develop this part of the show,” explained Amy Packham, event director at Textile Forum. “One of the most common questions we are asked is: where can I source good garment manufacturing? For our visitors to be able to select fabrics and production in one place makes perfect sense.”

“Many of the manufacturers showing at Textile Forum are members of the UKFT London Manufacturers Group, which was formed in 2016 to unite businesses in the capital with the aim of ensuring that London can help meet the rapidly-growing demand for fashion made here,” added Mansell.

Maxine Wells, founder of Intimate Apparel Samples (pictured above), said: “Our success at Textile Forum last year saw us build strong connections with new and established lingerie brands seeking sample and manufacturing units while sourcing their fabrics. It is reassuring to know that UKFT and Textile Forum are joining forces to support both UK manufacturers and local brands.”

“Textile Forum is a brilliant opportunity to catch up with so many past and current customers, as well as new prospects,” added Nailya Belkacemi, founder of Plus Samples. “There’s a constant flow of exhibitors so we are always busy, but still have enough time to spend with designers and brands who want to know more about our services. It’s great to be with like-minded people.”

Textile Forum runs from 13-14^th March at One Marylebone in London.

Read more about UKFT’s London Manufacturers Group here.