CWB catches up with Chloe Hitchinson and Jane McCready, Banner’s senior designers, to find out more about some of the latest product developments launching for 2027, including the new APTUS Essentials Core Training Pant and the new Made to Order 50/50 Knitted Quarter Zip. From developing versatile sportswear essentials to expanding its uniform knitwear offer, Banner is always looking at how it can introduce products that respond to the needs of schools, with the new additions reflecting its focus on comfort, versatility and future-proofing its ranges around evolving requirements.

 

CWB: What was the inspiration behind the new APTUS Essentials Core Training Pant?

Chloe Hitchinson: We wanted to create a versatile training pant that could become a real everyday essential. The aim was to design something that works just as well for training sessions as it does as part of a complete team tracksuit. With the APTUS Essentials range, we’re always looking at how we can combine practical features with a straightforward, wearable design.

 

 

CWB: What makes the Core Training Pant different?

Jane McCready: Comfort was a really important consideration. The training pant is made from 90% recycled polyester and 10% elastane, giving it stretch to allow for movement and keeping it comfortable during training. We’ve also added a zip opening to the hem, which makes changing in and out of the pants much easier.

CWB: How does it fit into the wider APTUS Essentials range?

CH: The aim was to create a versatile product that works seamlessly alongside the existing APTUS Essentials range. The Core Training Pant can be worn with any of our Essentials products but has been specifically designed to pair with the Essentials Core Mid-layer to create a coordinated tracksuit. We wanted to keep the styling clean and versatile, giving schools the flexibility to create a consistent training outfit that can be used across a range of different sports and activities.

 

 

CWB: You’re also introducing a Made to Order 50/50 Knitted Quarter Zip for 2027. What need or market shift prompted this development?

CH: The inspiration came from looking ahead at how school uniform could evolve over the coming years, and exploring how we could develop modern, practical alternatives to more traditional uniform pieces such as blazers. With the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill and the wider conversation around affordability and the amount of compulsory uniform schools ask families to purchase, we’re seeing a potential shift away from more traditional uniform pieces, towards more practical and versatile alternatives. We wanted to explore what that could look like for Banner and develop products that could sit within that changing landscape. The Quarter Zip offers a smart, polished appearance while feeling more relaxed and practical than a traditional blazer, making it a versatile option for schools looking to modernise their uniform. It’s about future-proofing the range and making sure we’re ready to support schools as their uniform requirements evolve, while still maintaining a smart and consistent school identity.

CWB: How does the Quarter Zip fit into the existing uniform range?

JM: We wanted it to work alongside what schools are already buying rather than being a complete replacement for existing knitwear. The Quarter Zip has been designed to complement our 50/50 range, so schools can introduce it as an additional option while maintaining consistency across their uniform. The 50% cotton, 50% acrylic anti-pilling construction also gives it the durability and comfort needed for everyday schoolwear, while the dyed-to-match zip gives the garment a clean, smart finish.

 

 

CWB: What do you think customers will like most about these new developments?

CH: I think it’s the versatility and the fact that both developments have a clear purpose. The Core Training Pant gives schools a practical, comfortable sportswear essential that can be used across different activities, while the Knitted Quarter Zip expands the uniform offer and gives schools another option within their knitwear range. It’s about developing products that solve a genuine need and can work alongside ranges schools are already buying from us.

CWB: What does this mean for future product development at Banner?

JM: We’re continually looking at how we can develop our ranges around what schools, teachers, parents and pupils actually need. It’s important that new products have a clear role within the range and offer something useful, rather than simply adding more choice for the sake of it. The developments for 2027 are a great example of this. We’re continuing to build on what works, while introducing new products that give schools greater choice and flexibility across both uniform and sportswear.

CH: Ultimately, it’s about listening to our customers and understanding where there are opportunities to improve or expand our ranges. Whether that’s creating a more versatile everyday training pant or introducing a new knitwear option through Made to Order, we want our product development to be driven by what schools actually need.

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