Leicester’s textile and fashion sector struck a notably optimistic tone this week as industry leaders, manufacturers and brands gathered for Leicester Made & Regions 2026, hosted at De Montfort University.
With 86 participants in attendance, the event marked a clear shift in atmosphere from its May 2025 counterpart, offering a more cohesive, energetic and solutions focused experience. From the outset, the venue played a key role in shaping that tone. Improved lighting, soft background music and a streamlined layout with all exhibition stands on one floor created a more accessible and engaging environment for attendees.
The day began with a well received networking breakfast hosted by De Montfort University, setting a collaborative tone early on. Opening addresses from Peter Chandler and Elly Cutkelvin acknowledged ongoing economic challenges in the UK while emphasising growth opportunities and renewed momentum within the sector.
One of the standout moments came during the CEO roundtable, which drew strong participation and highlighted a growing sense of unity across the industry. Contributions from Rosie Wrighting and Shockat Adam were particularly well received, reinforcing government engagement with the sector. While discussions remained under Chatham House Rules, attendees noted that the revised three asks framework introduced this year felt more focused and actionable.
A major announcement during the event also signalled progress toward greater transparency in UK manufacturing. A new digital platform developed collaboratively by ATMF, Fashion Enter Ltd, FashionCapital, De Montfort University, Fashion Roundtable and Katherine O Driscoll aims to provide clearer visibility across the supply chain. The initiative has been supported by funding from the Garment and Textile Workers Trust.
Throughout the day, footfall remained steady, peaking between 11am and 2pm. Despite some last minute cancellations linked to disruption from a London tube strike, overall attendance was higher than the previous year. Notably, there was a shift in exhibitor composition with fewer NGOs and a stronger presence of manufacturers aligning more closely with the core objectives of Leicester Made.
Major brands in attendance included Sainsbury’s Tu, Next, Tesco, Morrisons, N Brown Group, Raging Bull Leisure Ltd, Never Fully Dressed, ASOS, Burberry, Oliver Bonas and OMNES. However organisers noted a particularly strong increase in SME brands actively seeking UK manufacturing partners.
Interactive sessions including those led by ReFAB Studio and John Herrera were well attended while exhibitors reported securing tangible business opportunities on the day. New and innovative brands were also showcased adding fresh energy to the event.
While the removal of the fashion show was noted by some attendees who felt it previously provided a useful break in the schedule, the overall structure of the event was widely praised. Audience participation was particularly strong with open discussion and even controversial viewpoints welcomed as part of a more honest and constructive dialogue.
The event concluded with a fireside chat featuring Jennifer Holloway, Simon Platts and Suzanne Ellingham, offering candid reflections on the state of the industry and the path ahead.
A key takeaway echoed throughout the day was the need for greater alignment across industry bodies. Attendees highlighted the challenges posed by fragmentation and called for a more unified voice to better engage with government and drive sector wide change.
The closing drinks reception supported by Source Fashion provided a celebratory end to the day bringing together participants in a relaxed and collaborative setting.
As the industry looks ahead Leicester Made 2026 will be remembered as a turning point defined by optimism collaboration and a renewed commitment to strengthening UK manufacturing.