Spring into Action: Leicester Made & Regions + Exciting Industry Updates
01-04-2026
Newsletter 1st April 2026
Leicester Made & Regions This Spring
Spring has sprung, and with less than a month to go registrations are up and factories are engaging for this years bigger than ever Leicester Made & Regions manufacturing event!
Sponsor Announcement: Style3D
FEL and the ATMF are thrilled to announce Style3D as an official sponsor of Leicester Made and Regions (LM&R) 2026. A global leader in digital simulation technology and pioneers in Physical AI, Style3D is transforming how industries connect the physical and digital worlds, bringing cutting-edge innovation to fashion manufacturing. Their involvement signals an exciting step forward for LM&R 2026, strengthening the event’s focus on future technologies, creativity and next-generation production, while connecting UK manufacturers with world-leading digital expertise.
More Speakers Confirmed…
Joining the growing list of speakers we’re delighted to confirm that Adam Mansell, CEO of the UK Fashion & Textile Association (UKFT), will be attending as a guest speaker. With over 25 years of experience across the full fashion and textile supply chain, Adam brings unmatched industry insight and a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing UK manufacturing today. A well-known and respected voice in the sector, his contribution is set to be a highlight of this year’s event on 24th April at The Venue.
Hear From The Factories…
Putting factory voices firmly at the centre of the conversation Shehzaad Valli, CEO of Sundus Textiles and a director of the Apparel & Textile Manufacturers Federation (ATMF), represents a new generation of passionate, highly skilled manufacturers driving the sector forward. With factories now collaborating through ATMF, already supporting 20 businesses in tendering for a £60m public procurement contract, the event showcases the real strength of a united industry. From ultra-fast 5-day lead times to flexible models such as test and repeat, make-to-order and JIT, Leicester Made & Regions offers brands a unique opportunity to engage directly with manufacturers who are redefining UK production.
Upcycling and Repair Station at LM&R
At Leicester Made & Regions 2026 FEL and ReFAB Studio are inviting visitors to the Repair & Upcycle station, where attendees can transform textile remnants into bespoke pieces. Using donated fabrics from ReFAB Studio and guidance from expert tutors at the Fashion Technology Academy, participants can experiment with industrial sewing, repair techniques, and upcycling methods – turning surplus materials into unique creations while championing circularity and responsible fashion.
For more information on Leicester Made and Regions and to register to attend tap here.
Leicester Made & Regions 24th April 2026 at The Venue, De Montfort University.
For further information, exhibiting opportunities or press enquiries, please contact: beth@fashion-enter.com
Global Chaos, Local Solution – Make It In The UK
In the lead up to Leicester Made & Regions 2026, FEL CEO and ATMF Chair Jenny Holloway will join an exclusive ASBCI member-only webinar on 15th April, championing the message: global chaos, local solution—make the UK. In conversation with ASBCI Directors Simon Platts and Elizabeth Brandwood, Jenny will explore how UK manufacturing can provide long-term supply chain resilience and enhanced profitability in an increasingly uncertain global market. The session will also spotlight why Leicester Made & Regions on 24th April is a must-attend event for brands looking to connect with the UK’s skilled, agile and future-ready factories.
ASBCI’s In Association Magazine
Continued support from one of the industry’s most respected organisations, ASBCI, Leicester Made & Regions featured in the February edition of the ASBCI’s In Association magazine with an extensive four-page spread.
Open Days for 16–18 Year Olds – Level 3 Diploma Course
2026 school leavers want to explore a career in fashion but don’t know where to start? Applications are now open at the Fashion Technology Academy for 16–18 year olds ready to take their next step in creative education. The UAL Level 3 Diploma and Extended Diploma in Creative Practice offer a hands-on pathway into higher education in art and design, combining practical workshops, industry-standard techniques, research projects and opportunities to build strong presentation skills.
Upcoming Open Days will be held on:
All between 10am–2pm, these sessions offer a chance to explore the campus, meet tutors and students, and gain advice on applications and future pathways.
Join us at FC Designer Workspace, 9 Durham Road, Islington, London, N7 7FB, and take the first step towards September 2026. Early registration is advised as places are limited.
Latest From Leicester…
Free Masterclass Courtesy of Caroline Trend
The “Thinking of Launching a Fashion Brand?” masterclass delivered an insightful and practical introduction for aspiring fashion entrepreneurs. Held on 30th March at the FTA Fashion Hub and led by industry expert Caroline Trend, the session guided attendees through the full brand development journey, from concept to sourcing and manufacturing, while offering honest insight into the realities of starting a label. With a strong focus on research, customer understanding and industry processes such as tech packs, the masterclass equipped participants with the knowledge and confidence to take informed next steps in building their brands.
Eid Celebration
On 26th March 2026, the FTA Fashion Hub celebrated Eid, bringing students and staff together in a vibrant showcase of inclusivity, cultural awareness and community spirit. Attendees dressed in traditional outfits and shared dishes from their own cultures, marking the end of Ramadan with unity, reflection and shared celebration. The event also offered an educational dimension, fostering understanding and friendship while highlighting the diversity within the academy. Representatives from the Workers’ Educational Association (WEA) introduced students to further learning opportunities, helping them explore new skills and future pathways. As FTA Hub Administrator Sanna reflected, the day was a meaningful moment for everyone to connect, celebrate and experience new cultural traditions.
New Classes with Designer John Herrera
In response to learner demand the FTA team has created a new range of workshops with our visiting tutor – designer John Herrera. Response from previous drop-in sessions was that they weren’t long enough! Therefore, new to the masterclass agenda is a selection of Drop-In sessions taking place every Thursday from 10am – 4pm. Starting after Easter from 16th April, these sessions are perfect for individuals wanting John’s expert support and use of the workspace for their own personal projects. In addition to the Drop-In sessions John is hosting a selection of Saturday classes ranging from corset making, draping and pattern cutting. New dates for May and June are being added to our Masterclasses / Eventbrite page.
Courses Workshops and Masterclasses
Roll-on courses:
Available at all campuses Islington, Haringey and Leicester.
UAL Level 3 Diploma and Extended Diploma in Creative Practice
Sewing:
7th & 8th April – 2-day Introduction to Industrial Sewing and Garment Making – FC Designer Workspace – £70 + eventbrite fee
Fashion Illustration:
4th April – 1-day Fashion Illustration Saturday Class – FC Designer Workspace – £45 + eventbrite fee
Pattern Cutting:
7th & 8th April – 2-day Introduction to Pattern Making: Dress Block – FTA Haringey – £70 + eventbrite fee
Repair & Upcycling:
7th April – Free Repair and Upcycling Drop-In – FC Designer Collective shop – free
Open Day and Sewing Taster:
4th April – The Fashion Technology Academy Open Day (For 16-18 year olds interested in the UAL Level 3 Diploma and Extended Diploma in Creative Practice) – FC Designer Workspace – free
9th April – Free Sewing Workshop for 16-18-year-olds wanting to know more about fashion and the Level 3 Diploma course – FC Designer Workspace – free
For all course enquiries contact: education@fashion-enter.com or call 0208 809 3311
This Week on FashionCapital…
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And Finally…
Wishing you a joyful Easter bank holiday period! Whether you’re celebrating Easter, observing other traditions, or simply enjoying the long weekend, we hope these days bring rest, happiness and a chance to connect.
From the Team at FashionCapital / Fashion-Enter Ltd
