UK Fashion and Textile Association (UKFT) has taken over the management of Textiles Scotland (STLA), following a unanimous vote by STLA members and lengthy discussions between the two organisations. UKFT and STLA have strong historical links and the move provides new opportunities for Scottish companies by being part of a wider network while retaining a national, Scottish focus.

The Textiles Scotland branding will be continued, as will the Scottish focus of the activities, support and government lobbying. From 1 January 2019, existing Textiles Scotland members are transferred to a new company called UKFT Scotland. UKFT Scotland joins the main UKFT board and UKFT CEO Adam Mansell joins the Scottish Industry Leadership Group.

UKFT will work with the industry to develop a new membership offer that will help Textiles Scotland become a self-sustaining organisation, including using its expertise to develop an export strategy and a skills strategy for Scottish members.

UKFT’s members include some of the UK’s most well-known fashion and textile brands, heritage success stories and emerging designer labels, alongside the manufacturers and suppliers.