The UK is a world-class country in the field of manufacturing, especially in the apparel and clothing sector. Producing more than £9.1billion of goods every year and a staggering PS9.1billion of output each year, the UK apparel sector is among the largest in the world. It is most well-known for its attention to details and its incredible quality.
But will UK manufacturing continue to be relevant in 2023? This article will explore the past of British made clothing and then discuss what the industry is like today. How ‘Made in the UK clothing will help you and your business.
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British Clothing Manufacturing – Where It All Started
In the beginning, it’s recommended to take a brief glance at the history of British manufacture industry particularly regarding the production of clothing and accessories. The UK is renowned all over across the globe due to its premium clothes, and that’s no surprise. Since the Industrial Revolution around 1840, Britain has become flooded with textile factories. A significant portion of them are located in Lancashire and its surrounding areas.
In the 20th century, British made clothes became more popular, particularly in the time that followed WW1. However, the industry of manufacturing was a victim of a decline during and following WW2 and the economic downturn made it necessary for many companies to go to close. The recession lasted for many years after the war ended and picked up in the 1970s and 1980s when British fashion brand names made an appearance in pop culture.
In the 1990s as well as beyond fashion icons like Alexander McQueen and Stella McCartney brought back fashions made from the UK. This has helped to transform London to become one of the most fashionable cities in the world. Many fashion brands are based in London have benefited from British-based design and production techniques.
When you look at the rich the history of made-in UK clothing, you will immediately observe how the country’s landscape has changed in the last two centuries. It has evolved from humble origins within the mills that produced textiles Lancashire to the world-renowned designers working in London. The UK clothing industry is seen as one of the top industries of clothing around the world. Therefore, when people inquire whether British-made clothing is any longer relevant The answer is definitely yes!
Made in UK Clothing Where Are We Today?
So, what will British manufacturing of clothing be as in the year 2021? If you’ve read the last section you’re probably picturing an exploding clothing industry in contemporary Britain. But, that’s not the reality. One of the primary reasons why clothing and apparel production has moved to other countries instead of in the UK is the efficiency outsourcing manufacturing to countries that aren’t.
In the last couple of decades, many companies that manufacture clothing and other apparel on the UK have chosen to have their products produced in countries where labour is less expensive. Allowing them to boost the margins they earn. Countries like Taiwan, Indonesia and China have manufacturing processes that are significantly less expensive than those offered within the UK. The result is that companies operating in the UK are likely to place an order with a factory within one of those countries. They then manufacture the products and then ship the items over to the UK to be sold.
This business model has had a huge impact on British-made clothing. Only a small fraction of producers and retailers still sourcing their entire supply chain on the UK. Although outsourcing production is economical, it comes with its own challenges. They can be a result of the moral problem of workers’ inadequate working conditions, to product quality concerns, or even the worry about the carbon dioxide emissions that result from transporting the goods to Britain.
With these facts in mind one can understand what companies are trying to help the British fashion industry in 2023, by choosing to make their products in the UK.
British Clothing Manufacturing – The Bottom Line
To conclude to conclude, the British garment manufacturing industry has a rich history and is well-deserving of its renowned status. Beginning with the revolution in industry of 1840s until the catwalk modeling of the decade British clothing has always been a hit with their unique appeal. Due to their exceptional design and craftsmanship, they have earned a place in the world of fashion.