Unifying The Voice For Public Procurement: FEL Talks To The BBC
07-10-2026
Newsletter 7th October 2026
FEL & UK Manufacturing Featured on BBC Politics East Midlands
Fashion-Enter Ltd and the ATMF are bringing 20 UK factories together to create a stronger, unified voice for SMEs seeking Government public procurement opportunities, putting UK manufacturing, jobs and skills firmly at the heart of the conversation.
The initiative was highlighted on BBC Politics East Midlands following a visit to Fashion-Enter’s FTA in Leicester, where Dan Martin interviewed FEL CEO and ATMF Chair Jenny Holloway alongside FTA students. Jenny highlighted the urgent need to re-industrialise the UK and ensure that the opportunities created through public procurement are accessible to capable UK SMEs. By working collectively, the 20 factories are demonstrating that smaller manufacturers have the capability, capacity and expertise to deliver Government contracts helping retain production, investment, jobs and skills within the UK.
Tap here to watch BBC Politics East Midlands, aired 4th October, via FashionCapital’s YouTube account.
Fashion Supplier of Year Nominee
We’re delighted to share some fantastic news: our sister company, Fashion-Enter Ltd, has been shortlisted for a 2026 Drapers Award in the prestigious Fashion Supplier of the Year category. This is a particularly special achievement as it marks the third time the ethical social enterprise has reached the shortlist, following its success in winning the award in 2024.
The latest recognition adds to what has already been an outstanding year for Fashion-Enter Ltd, coming shortly after the organisation received the King’s Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development. To be recognised once again by the Drapers Awards, one of the most prestigious events on the UK fashion industry calendar, is a wonderful testament to the team’s continued commitment to ethical manufacturing, sustainability, innovation and excellence.
We’ll be keeping everything crossed ahead of the awards ceremony at Old Billingsgate in London on Wednesday 11th November, and wish all this year’s nominees the very best of luck!
Join Us For Manchester Made & Regions 4th November
Fashion-Enter Ltd is proud to be co-hosting Manchester Made & Regions 2026 alongside Source Fashion and the Apparel & Textile Manufacturers Federation (ATMF) on Wednesday 4th November. Announced on National Manufacturing Day, this one-day event will bring together brands, retailers, manufacturers and industry leaders to explore what it will take to make UK production work commercially for more businesses.
With a focus on localised sourcing, supply-chain resilience, skills, capacity, costs and sustainability, the event will shine a spotlight on the capabilities of British fashion and textile manufacturing. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet UK manufacturers, discover production closer to home, explore the business case for on-shoring and connect with potential suppliers, clients and collaborators.
Why attend Manchester Made & Regions 2026?
- Meet UK fashion and textile manufacturers
- Discover production capabilities closer to home
- Explore the business case for localised sourcing
- Hear directly from manufacturers, brands and industry leaders
- Understand the realities behind pricing, MOQs and lead times
- Discuss public procurement, onshoring and regional growth
- Connect with potential suppliers, clients and collaborators
Manchester Made & Regions will take place at Manchester Hall tap here to find out more and book your free place.
Raising the Bar at FTA
At the Fashion Technology Academy (FTA), maintaining high standards of teaching is a continual process. Following constructive feedback from Ofsted, the team has strengthened its approach to professional development, including bringing in specialist expertise around different learner needs and barriers to learning. On 1st October, FTA tutors took part in detailed teaching observations designed to assess how effectively learning is embedded, how different abilities are supported and, most importantly, the quality of the learner experience.
The observations provided an opportunity for open, constructive feedback, with tutors embracing the process as a valuable way to continually develop their teaching practice. From interactive learning and differentiated support to ensuring every learner leaves the classroom with meaningful, embedded knowledge, the observations demonstrated the commitment of the FTA team to creating an environment where learners can achieve, belong and thrive.
For more on the FTA, courses and apprenticeships: https://fcfta.com/
Job Opportunity: CAD/CAM Trainer & Technical Support Technician
VetiGraph is recruiting! The Leicestershire-based team is looking for a motivated and technically minded CAD/CAM Trainer & Technical Support Technician to join its growing business. The full-time role combines customer training, software support, CAD/CAM technology and CNC machinery, with full training provided. It’s an exciting opportunity for someone with a background in fashion, textiles, pattern cutting, upholstery or other soft-material industries who has an interest in technology and enjoys working with people. UK travel and occasional overseas travel are required. To find out more tap here.
Pink Threads Workshop Leicester – Part 3
On Monday 5th October, we welcomed another group of women to our Pink Threads community workshop, delivered in collaboration with Breast Cancer Now. The free session brought together breast cancer awareness, wellbeing and creativity, with participants learning about screening before getting hands-on with bra construction, measurements and pattern cutting. The relaxed and friendly session highlighted how fashion education can create opportunities for learning, connection and wellbeing far beyond the classroom.
Feedback from the Pink Threads workshops has been incredibly positive, with participants describing the sessions as enjoyable, therapeutic and informative, while praising the knowledge and expertise of the tutors. The fourth and final workshop will take place on Friday 30th October 10am – 1pm – if you are based in Leicester and would like to attend tap here to register your place.
1 Day Denim Masterclass With LaundRe
Want to understand denim beyond the finished garment? LaundRe’s one-day Denim Masterclass brings together leading industry experts for an afternoon exploring the fabric, chemistry and technology behind modern denim.
The session will cover:
- Fabric: fibres, weaving, dyeing, construction, finishing and stretch technology.
- Chemistry: the science behind denim finishes, with a live innovation showcase.
- Laser: a hands-on introduction to laser finishing and creating laser-optimised artwork.
Designed to help industry professionals make better design and commercial decisions, the masterclass offers practical insight into the technologies shaping the future of denim.
29th October, 1 – 5pm, Canning Town, London E16 4ST
LaundRe are offering a 20% discount for bookings made through FashionCapital / Fashion Enter with code UKDENIM26
Places are limited please contact: jeans@laundre.co.uk to book.
Dark Autumn Days…Time to Learn a New Skill!
As the evenings draw in, why not turn the darker days into an opportunity to learn something new? The FTA in London has expanded its programme of short, practical courses, with workshops ranging from one to four days, making it easier to fit fashion skills development around your schedule.
From industrial sewing and garment making to pattern cutting, shirt and trouser making, skirt construction and upcycling, there’s something for beginners and those looking to build their existing skills. With new dates running throughout October and November, now is the perfect time to pick up the needle, get creative and develop practical skills you can use.
Visit the FashionCapital Eventbrite page to view all the courses.
Courses & Workshops
Roll-on courses:
FTA campuses are located in Islington, Haringey and Leicester.
1 to 4 Day Workshops Coming Up:
8th & 9th October – 2 Day Beginners Pattern Cutting Workshop – Collars & Sleeves Adaptation – FC Designer Workspace – £80 + eventbrite fee
12th & 13th October – 2 Day Introduction to Industrial Sewing and Garment Making Workshop – FC Designer Workspace – £80 + eventbrite fee
12th – 14th October – 3 Day Beginners Pattern Cutting Workshop – FC Designer Workspace – £120 + eventbrite fee
14th – 16th October – 3-Day Introduction to Industrial Sewing and Make-Up Bag Making Workshop – FC Designer Workspace – £120 + eventbrite fee
15th – 16th October – 2-Day Beginners Pattern Cutting Workshop – FC Designer Workspace – £80 + eventbrite fee
20th October – Free Repair & Upcycling Drop In Session – FC Designer Collective shop – Free please register
30th October – Pink Threads: Breast Cancer Awareness & Bra-Making Workshop – FTA Leicester – Free please register
4th November – Manchester Made & Regions – Manchester Hall – Free please register
For all course enquiries contact: education@fashion-enter.com or call 0208 809 3311
This Week On FashionCapital…
Inspiration: AW27/28 Renaissance Romance — The Beauty of Time
And Finally…From Manchester to The Midlands
A recent meeting between designer Jashaan Gill and FEL highlighted a shared belief that, another region in the UK – the Midlands, has enormous creative and manufacturing talent and that connecting these networks can create real opportunities. With the first Midlands Fashion Week now being planned for 2027, we look forward to seeing this exciting vision develop and will be following Jashaan’s journey closely. Watch this space!
Until next time, have a great week.
From the Team at FashionCapital / Fashion-Enter Ltd
