TEXINTEL TALKS - EPISODE 131 - The State of UK fashion and the Advantages of UK Manufacturing with Make it British
In this podcast episode, Debbie McKeegan interviews Kate Hills, founder of Make It British, discussing the state of UK manufacturing, particularly in the fashion and textile industry.
They explore the Leicester Made event, the challenges faced by fashion manufacturers in Leicester, the importance of local production, and the need for a national campaign to promote 'Made in Britain'.
The conversation highlights the benefits of choosing UK manufacturers, the issues of on-shoring, and the necessity for a fairer industry that values Quality over Quantity.
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KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Kate Hills founded Make It British in 2011 to support UK manufacturing.
The Leicester Made event aims to highlight good manufacturers in Leicester.
Leicester was once the epicentre of the UK garment industry.
Fast fashion has driven many manufacturers to cut corners.
UK manufacturers need to focus on quality, not just volume.
The government needs to support local manufacturing initiatives.
A national campaign is needed to promote 'Made in Britain'.
Buyers must commit to working with UK manufacturers long-term.
The industry faces a skills shortage due to lack of investment.
Sustainable practices are essential for the future of UK manufacturing.
CHAPTERS:
00:00 Introduction to UK Manufacturing and Make It British
03:54 The Leicester Made Event: Focus and Purpose
05:16 Challenges Facing Leicester's Manufacturing Industry
09:37 Showcasing Skills and Resources in Leicester
13:43 Benefits of Choosing UK Manufacturers
15:28 The Importance of 'Made in Britain' Campaigns
20:24 Challenges of Onshoring for Brands and Manufacturers
24:03 The Need for Commitment from Retailers
25:19 The Commitment Gap in Manufacturing
29:10 The Knowledge Share Dilemma
32:20 The Burden of Audits and Certifications
36:51 Recommendations for a Fairer Industry
41:08 The Need for a National Campaign
