Paul Alger, international business director of the UK Fashion & Textile Association (UKFT), has been made a Member of the British Empire (MBE) for services to exports in the UK fashion industry.

He was given the honour on 29 January by the UKFT President Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal. The presentation took place at an investiture ceremony at Buckingham Palace.

Alger champions the industry both in the UK and overseas. He has led countless trade missions to important international markets. He also supports groups at the major trade shows and events around the world.

Paul Alger MBE says: “I was thrilled to receive my MBE from Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, who is hugely supportive of the work that we do at UKFT.

“I had to admit that I had not expected to receive it from her as I knew she was going to be visiting one of our members, Simon Carter, the same day. It is a huge privilege and I am truly humbled by all the well wishes and messages of support.”

Adam Mansell, CEO of UKFT, adds: “I am absolutely thrilled that Paul’s huge contribution to the industry has been rewarded. He has helped thousands of businesses grow and his knowledge of exporting is encyclopaedic.

“His impact on fashion businesses over the last three decades has been immeasurable. We are extremely proud to have him as our director of international business.”

Alger works with a wide variety of fashion and textile brands helping to develop export strategies and routes to market.

“Paul has a deep bedrock of commitment and love for what he does, which radiates far beyond his clients alone,” says Phoebe English, founder of Phoebe English.

“In an industry so regimented by profit, loss, growth, and the bottom line, it has always been a refreshing pleasure to know and work with someone who puts the person and human experience back into and at the forefront of all of this. I love working with and knowing Paul and he deserves this honour a great, great deal.”

Also commenting is Bill Leach, global sales director at John Smedley. “Paul has always been, and will remain, a beacon of positivity; a fantastic source of industry support to all whom have been lucky enough to work with him in our industry.

“I have been lucky enough to enjoy Paul’s guidance, support and his inimitable ‘joie de vivre’ at numerous industry exhibitions, seminars and round tables. All of which have been significantly more informative and indeed enjoyable as a result of Paul’s leadership and involvement.”

For further information on UKFT, please click here.