Make it British is changing the name of its annual trade show to Make it British Live! Previously called Meet the Manufacturer, the show is a leading British sourcing event attracting designers, manufacturers, retailers and academics each year. 

Since its launch five years ago the event has grown from 56 to over 200 exhibitors and it is becoming increasingly more popular among British manufacturers and businesses, who want to source products that are made in the UK, organisers report.

“Our new name, Make it British Live!, reflects the essence of the Make it British campaign and is a stronger reflection of our core values, to encourage more people to buy British and manufacture in the UK.  We’re confident that our rebrand will be the fanfare to attract even more progressive businesses, looking to source locally and re-shore their production back to the UK,” commented Kate Hills, founder of Make it British.

Event highlights

From garment manufacturing and textile mills to pattern cutters and trimming suppliers, Make it British Live! Aims to bring together all the manufacturers you need under one roof, if you want to make in the UK. 

The event is also the place to go to discover a British brand, with a selection of creative businesses showcasing their distinct and inspirational labels. In addition, the event features a two-day programme of talks with a line-up of inspiring speakers and informative workshops that reflect the diversity of the fashion, textiles and homeware industries.

Production on the rise

The rebranding comes at a time when UK textile manufacturing is booming with production up 25%, and 50% of businesses reporting an increase in turnover compared to last year, according to a recent survey conducted by Make it British.

“More and more businesses in the UK are looking to manufacture locally and we’re seeing more interest than ever before from overseas as more companies seek out brands with a made in Britain label. For many years the fashion and textiles supply chain in this country has been fragmented, but Make it British Live! is all about bringing that supply chain back together,” said Mr Hills.

Now in its fifth year, Make it British Live! takes place from 23-24 May at The Old Truman Brewery, London.

www.makeitbritish.co.uk

Further reading

Meet the Manufacturer Episode 4