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About the industry

About the industry

The UK fashion and textile industry is diverse and highly valuable to the economy.

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The fashion and textile industry offers 65 career types across 12 different subsectors.

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The fashion and textile industry contributes almost £20 billion to the UK economy.

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The UK fashion and textile industry manufactures £9.1 billion of product annually.

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The fashion and textile industry in England, Wales and Scotland employs 500,000 people, 88,000 of which are employed in manufacturing.

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Clothing is ranked no 27 in UK’s top 30 biggest goods exports, valued at £4.2 billion in 2022.

Why work in fashion and textiles?

The UK fashion and textile industry maintains a worldwide reputation for creativity and quality. The industry is made up of businesses that respond and innovate in the face of global change and the rise of the sustainability agenda. 

Today’s UK manufacturing industry combines skilled craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology. This vibrant and diverse sector produces high-quality products used in hospitals, cars, international catwalks and the high street. The manufacturing sector creates jobs and opportunity and is a significant driver of growth to the UK economy.

Our iconic UK brands are coveted around the world. These dynamic businesses, led by creatives, are pioneering new ways to challenge established norms in the global fashion market, from new materials and applications to new routes to market.

Our textile mills supply some of the finest fabrics to the most prestigious brands, designers and tailors. A growing number of design studios are gaining momentum thanks to their contemporary approach to prints and weave. Industry projects are looking at systemic changes to waste reduction and circularity.

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