Fashion – Enter Ltd Joins the Mid Wales Manufacturing Group
19-10-2020
Run by manufacturers for manufacturers the Mid Wales Manufacturing Group (MWMG) was set up back in 1994 by a group of manufacturing and engineering companies with the aim of working together more closely. The group now consists of over 140 members across Mid Wales and the latest of which is our very own Fashion-Enter Ltd.
The Group is owned by the members and run by a non executive Board of Directors elected from that membership. This Board also sets the strategy and priorities ranging from working with young people to promote the opportunities available in the industry locally and the importance of STEM. MWMG are currently working with local authorities and Welsh Government on industrial property requirements and ensuring future demand to promote growth, working together on skills and training needs, and developing local supply chains.
Fashion-Enter Ltd recently (5th October 2020) opened a clothing manufacturing unit within the Pryce Jones building in Newtown, Powys. The factory consists predominantly of a workforce of former Laura Ashley employees and is keen to employ more staff as well as commit to on going training and apprenticeship programmes.
Fashion-Enter CEO Jenny Holloway recently joined the MWMG online meeting (16th October 2020) along with a range of Welsh industry representatives, to give general feedback from the Manufacturing & Engineering sector and to discuss details of the Welsh Governments consultation on ‘A manufacturing future for Wales: a framework for action’.
Manufacturing is an essential pillar in Wales’ future economic plan and the representatives in the meeting were keen that the sector strives to invest in the industry and its future to ensure local growth.
CEO of Fashion-Enter Ltd Jenny Holloway comments:
“The manufacturing business in Wales needs: 1) An investment in skills. We are currently recruiting for 30 stitchers. Skilled stitchers are in short supply and we are looking to invest in training and apprenticeships. 2) Investment in technology. Digital skills like Optitex are the future, along with the incorporation of robotics such as sew-bot, will ensure that the industry remains here and not overseas. 3) R and D tax credits and preferential loans for investment in the latest technologies. Forward planning in skills and technologies is vital.”
‘A manufacturing future for Wales: a framework for action’ open consultation closed on the 19th October 2020. The core topics covered:
- To encourage greater innovation and headquarter locations across Wales
- To grow Wales’ export potential
- To increase quality employment and skills across Wales
- To expand the research and development base across Wales
Responses and key strategies from the consultation will be published in due course. Jenny Holloway would like to thank the MWMG and looks forward to further engagement with the group and the sector in general.
