The UK Fashion & Textile Association (UKFT) is supporting the new Burberry Centre for Manufacturing Excellence, which opened on 10 February in Castleford, West Yorkshire.

UKFT has delivered training to trainers and team leaders at Burberry. This will enable the delivery of a new, formalised industrial sewing machinist development programme. This is in addition to providing practical techniques to refresh and expand the skill set of experienced sewing operatives.

Commenting is Lise Edwards-Warrener, VP Internal Manufacturing, Burberry. “We have created some of our most iconic products in Castleford and Keighley in Yorkshire for over 100 years.

“We firmly believe in protecting artisanal skills, nurturing talent and investing in British fashion manufacturing through programmes including the Burberry Centre for Manufacturing Excellence.

“Partnering with UKFT has been key in bringing this initiative to life. We are proud of the impact the programme is already having and will continue to have on our local community.”

UKFT works to ensure both skills and productivity in the UK fashion and textiles industry are of the highest level. It also supports employers, training providers and other stakeholders to address critical skills gaps in the industry.

Commenting is Celia Thornley, Skills & Training Manager at UKFT. “We are delighted to partner with this iconic British luxury brand, which is committed to manufacturing here in the UK. Improving the training skills on the factory floor is key to ensuring that our industry remains competitive against global competition.”

Additionally, UKFT is about to embark on a three-year project to inspire young people to explore a career in fashion and textile manufacturing.

For further information about UKFT or its work on skills and training, please click here.