Source Fashion, Europe’s leading sourcing show for fashion manufacturing, has announced a major new initiative aimed at championing British-made goods. Launching in February 2026, the scheme includes a dedicated British Heritage Pavilion and represents a transformative opportunity for Britain’s ethical fashion manufacturers to gain international visibility and support.

(Source Fashion at Olympia London – July 2025 edition)

The initiative, backed by a £500,000 investment over three years, will showcase 15 standout UK manufacturers across three editions of Source Fashion—February 2026, July 2026, and January 2027. It includes fully funded exhibition spaces, tailored marketing support, and brand development resources, giving local manufacturers the tools to scale globally.

Leicester, historically one of the UK’s textile powerhouses, continues to be a centre for skilled garment manufacturing. Despite facing challenges in recent years, including underfunding and shifting global demand, the city has remained resilient through its growing network of ethical manufacturers.

Many of these businesses—largely SMEs—struggle to afford exhibition costs that would allow them to reach international buyers. Through this new Source Fashion initiative, Leicester-based companies will have direct access to global markets, media exposure, and high-level buyers looking for sustainable, local supply chain partners.

“As Source Fashion evolves, we’re proud to support UK manufacturers, especially those in places like Leicester where the industry is rooted in community, craftsmanship, and innovation,” said Suzanne Ellingham, Event Director at Source Fashion. “We want to give these businesses not just a platform—but a sustainable growth path.”

ATMF and Leicester’s Voice at Source Fashion

(ATMF stand showcasing Leicester manufacturers at Source Fashion July 2025)

This is great news for Made in the UK and will complement the existing partnership with Source Fashion and the Apparel and Textile Manufacturers Federation (ATMF), which has played a vital role in advocating for Leicester’s garment sector. At the July 2025 edition of Source Fashion, ATMF curated a dedicated Leicester showcase, spotlighting seven leading ethical manufacturers:

• AVINCI LTD

• Basic Premier Ltd

• Denovo Apparel

• N V Collections International

• Shahtex (Leicester) Limited

• Who’s Who Ltd

• 23 Foxes Ltd

(23 Foxes Ltd)

This showcase highlighted the capabilities of Leicester’s ethical factories and underscored the benefits of sourcing locally—from traceable supply chains to fair labour practices.

“We were thrilled to showcase Leicester’s strengths at Source Fashion,” said Jenny Holloway, Chair of ATMF. “This new scheme is a game-changer. It recognises the value of UK manufacturing—particularly in Leicester—where innovation meets tradition. We’re ready to show the world that high-quality, ethical production is alive and thriving right here.”

Ramana K from AVINCI LTD commented after the 3-day July edition: “Thank you for the opportunity to participate in Source Fashion 2025. It was a pleasure to be part of such a well-organized and impactful event. We were glad to meet and engage with a range of individuals in the industry, including new start-ups and an Indian fabric supplier, which we believe could open doors to exciting future collaborations. A key highlight for us was the insightful conversation with Simon Platts and Katherine from SP & KO, as well as attending the session by Jack Stratten, Head of Trends at Insider Trends. His talk on “AI, Tech, and Fashion: Progressive or Regressive?” offered valuable insights that we are keen to reflect on as we explore digital innovation within our business.”

A Long-Term Boost 

With a three-show commitment, the scheme is designed to build long-term momentum for local manufacturers. It ensures businesses have repeated exposure, helping them develop sustained relationships with buyers and adapt to market demands.

“It’s not just about the stand—it’s about long-term support,” said Ellingham. “Our goal is to give manufacturers, especially in cities like Leicester, a fair shot at global growth and recognition.”

Early confirmed participants in the British Heritage Pavilion include Courtney and Co, the UK’s last button maker, and Alexander Manufacturing—but future editions are expected to spotlight even more Leicester-based companies as nominations open later this year.

(Shahtex Leicester Ltd)

Towards a Sustainable Future for UK Fashion

Source Fashion’s focus on ethical sourcing and local production aligns with wider industry trends toward responsible manufacturing. Leicester’s commitment to compliance, sustainability, and innovation puts it in a strong position to benefit from this global shift.

“We are building a platform rooted in trust, transparency, and talent,” Ellingham added.

As anticipation builds toward the February 2026 edition of Source Fashion, this initiative signals a new era for the British manufacturing sector—positioning it not only as a national asset but as a global leader in ethical, sustainable fashion production.