On Thursday 21st August at 10:30am, the Fashion Technology Academy (FTA) Leicester and the Apparel & Textile Manufacturers Federation (ATMF) welcomed a BBC journalist determined to highlight a side of Leicester’s manufacturing industry that is too often ignored – the resilient, compliant, and forward-thinking businesses that continue to operate and innovate despite challenging circumstances.

Over the past five years, Leicester’s textile and garment sector has endured a series of negative headlines, ranging from exploitative labour practices to large-scale factory closures. While these issues needed to be addressed, the ongoing narrative has often overlooked the many ethical manufacturers that remain committed to best practices, transparency, and sustainability.

In response, the BBC journalist is working on a documentary that aims to rebalance the public perception of Leicester’s garment industry. The focus? The manufacturers that have continued to operate responsibly, invest in new technologies, and look toward a more sustainable and ethical future for UK fashion manufacturing.

To support this important piece of journalism, FTA Leicester / ATMF organised a round of interviews with several local manufacturers. These businesses were invited to share their experiences, discuss the challenges they’ve faced, and express their hopes for the future of the local industry.

The interviews offered valuable insight into what it means to run a compliant and forward-facing factory in today’s climate. Many spoke of investments in sustainable production methods, workforce development, and a desire to rebuild trust in Leicester-made products.

FTA Leicester, based at Phoenix House, continues to serve as a hub for ethical manufacturing and textile education. By facilitating media access and offering a platform for these businesses to be heard, the Academy reinforces its mission to uplift and future-proof the local fashion and textile sector.

The finished BBC documentary is expected to air later this year, offering national audiences a closer look at the positive contributions being made by Leicester’s remaining garment manufacturers and the people working behind the scenes to ensure that UK-made fashion has a credible, ethical future.