Leicester Manufacturers Showcase Their Capabilities to Major Retail Group

Leicester’s fashion manufacturing sector was firmly in the spotlight on 21st July, as a number of local apparel and textile manufacturers came together for a dedicated buyer showcase hosted by the Apparel & Textile Manufacturers Federation(ATMF).

Held at the FTA Fashion Hub Leicester, the event welcomed three representatives from a major UK retail group, providing an opportunity for 10 Leicester-based factories to present their product ranges, share samples and discuss their specialist manufacturing capabilities directly with potential buyers.

The showcase enabled manufacturers to demonstrate the breadth of skills available across Leicester’s ethical garment manufacturing sector, with discussions covering product development, production capabilities, quality standards and future partnership opportunities.

Jenny Holloway, Chair of the Apparel & Textile Manufacturers Federation and CEO of Fashion-Enter Ltd, said: “This was an excellent opportunity, and the feedback from the retailer was extremely positive. They were impressed by the width and depth of product on offer across Leicester’s manufacturing base. It was a little bit like speed dating, but it worked! Both parties left with a much stronger understanding of the capabilities that exist within Leicester’s fashion manufacturing community.”

The event forms part of the ATMF’s ongoing commitment to promoting Leicester as a centre of ethical, transparent and high-quality UK garment manufacturing. By bringing retailers and manufacturers together in one location, brands can efficiently meet multiple suppliers, compare capabilities and explore opportunities for UK sourcing.

For the manufacturers attending, the showcase provided valuable face-to-face time with a major retailer, allowing them to demonstrate their expertise, build new relationships and highlight the flexibility, speed and craftsmanship that Leicester’s factories can offer.

The ATMF continues to offer this networking service to retailers and brands looking to better understand Leicester’s manufacturing capabilities and connect with trusted, ethical suppliers. As demand for responsible UK sourcing continues to grow, initiatives like these help strengthen Leicester’s position as one of Britain’s leading centres for fashion and textile manufacturing.