UKFT and Textile Scotland join forces, create UKFT Scotland

By

Barbara Santamaria

Published
Dec 10, 2018

The UK Fashion and Textile Association is set to take over the management of Textiles Scotland from January 2019 in a move that will give Scottish textile companies access to a wider support network.

The decision was announced following a unanimous vote by Textiles Scotland and “lengthy” discussions between the two organisations, UKFT said.

With over 2,500 members, including designers, manufacturers, agents and retailers, UKFT is a fashion and textile association helping companies reach new market overseas, define skills gaps and achieve best practices.  

James Lang, chairman of Textiles Scotland, said: “UKFT’s commitment to working with the industry to deliver our current plan of activity, while plugging into a wider fashion, leather and textiles network makes it a perfect partner for Textiles Scotland. This new partnership allows us to focus on high-value growth opportunities in international markets and adopt an industry-wide approach, which is genuinely committed to innovation and best practice to ensure future success.”

Textiles Scotland will remain a separate entity with its own branding and Scottish focus, but its existing members will be transferred to a new company called UKFT Scotland on 1 January. The ultimate goal will be to help UKFT Scotland become a self-sustaining organisation that can help Scottish members with export and skills advice.

Nigel Lugg, chairman of UKFT, said: “We are delighted to welcome Textiles Scotland into the wider UKFT community and look forward to expanding our support services to address the needs of our new Scottish members, focused on leadership, innovation, internationalisation, skills and investment. This transaction will ensure that Scottish companies have a national and international voice and significantly furthers our aim of creating a highly profitable and productive UK fashion and textiles industry.”