Why UK Brands Should Attend Leicester Made
18-03-2025
The fashion and manufacturing sector in Leicester has had more than its fair share of bad publicity over the last few years, and yes, manufacturers have closed down as a result. However, where are the success stories?
Reading The Sun’s article, published 9th March 2025, ‘Hidden horrors of UK’s ‘sweatshop village’ as workers slam Starmer & fast fashion giants for making it into ‘ghost town’ by Graeme Culliford, paints a very bleak picture for the industry and the area. The article unfairly neglects to include the many hard working, ethically compliant, manufacturers that continue to operate and adapt to a changing industry landscape.
Jenny Holloway, CEO of FashionCapital / Fashion-Enter Ltd said: “Leicester is one of the UK’s largest areas for fashion and textiles businesses and as a training provider for industry skills we have met many businesses and support organisations that are dedicated to Made in the UK production.
“No retailer should give up on UK manufacturing. The benefits of proximity sourcing are there for everyone to assimilate. Just think of the carbon emissions that are saved.
“The test and repeat model needs factories to work closely. Then there’s the small MOQ – who else can supply just 100 units of a style within a week!”
Now in its second edition, Leicester Made trade show will shine a spotlight on Leicester’s fashion supply chain. Taking place 14th May at Athena, the event provides the opportunity to meet with exhibitors that offer a range of production services and innovations.
The event will also host panel talks and roundtable discussions, and the FEL team is delighted that Liz Kendall, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions and MP for Leicester West and John Lyttle MD Marks & Spencer have confirmed their attendance. More leading industry figures from government, retail and industry organisations will be announced in due course.
Why should UK brands attend Leicester Made:
- Leicester does have sustainable, ethical, financially stable factories that can provide fast track production, test and repeat models and bulk run facilities – come and meet them for a chat.
- Many businesses have adapted to no MOQ’s minimising risk.
- Brands can easily visit and liaise with their supplier at any time.
- A huge reduction in travel and shipping bringing down carbon emissions.
- A win win win for Made in the UK, the local workforce and the UK economy.
Bill McRaith, Executive advisor at Future-Proof Fashion commented: “This (Leicester Made) will be an amazing event and the opportunity to understand how reshoring a segment of the apparel industry not only increases the profitability of the brands and retailers but also directly delivers on our sustainability and environmental commitments.”
Leicester Made Wednesday 14th May at Athena, Leicester
For all Leicester Made enquiries, please contact: beth@fashion-enter.com
If you would like to attend Leicester Made 2025 please tap here
