The Schoolwear Association (SA), which this year is focusing on giving schoolwear suppliers and retailers a voice in Parliament and providing support during Covid-19, is keen for new members to join its ranks.
The trade body for the schoolwear sector is calling on the industry to unite ahead of upcoming challenges facing both retailers and suppliers of school-branded uniform.
With the Education Bill (Cost of school uniforms) due to progress through Parliament and be signed into law later this year, as well as the ongoing challenges caused by Covid-19, the Association is warning that it will need further support from the industry to represent it to its best ability.
Commenting is Matthew Easter, co-chair of the Schoolwear Association.
“Like any trade body, we rely on the support of our members. We have had a long-established base of membership, but over the last year we have faced unprecedented challenges to the industry and these obstacles will not be going away.
“The fundraising we started in late 2019 was vital to enable us to give the industry a voice in Parliament and ensure a better understanding of the costs of uniform and the supportive way the industry works with schools, parents and pupils.
“However, for us to continue to ensure that future guidelines are sensible and practical, we need more support from schoolwear retailers and suppliers who are not currently part of the SA.
“Membership of the Schoolwear Association is based on signing up to the principles set out in our Code of Practice; so that we can continue to increase standards across the industry, as well as sharing best practice and strengthening links between schools, retailers, manufacturers, and suppliers.
“Members’ businesses benefit from these principles as well as the Association’s media and lobbying presence and networking opportunities. Membership represents great value for money.
“Given the pressures facing businesses in all sectors, we know the coming weeks and months will be challenging. However, with increased support from our industry, we will be able to do even more to support its interests.”
Click here for further information about becoming a member of the SA. Alternatively, contact info@schoolwearassociation.co.uk.
