Last week we spent two days at the annual Meet the Manufacturer event organised by Kate Hills of Make it British. For those who are not familiar with the name, Kate Hills is the founder of an organisation that connects businesses with clients looking to have their products made in Britain.
We had two stands at the show: one in the Manufacturer Hall T1 to represent our apparel manufacturing studio for fashion designers. Another one in the Brand Hall T5 where we showcased our Lluks London collection.
Apparel Production Stand In The Manufacturing Hall
We had numerous chats with business owners, emerging designers, journalists, students of London College of Fashion, Sales Directors, Sourcing Directors, and simply visitors who wanted to have a gown made for The Royal Ascot. It was exciting and at the same time pleasing to see rising interest for British manufacturing and people willing to outsource in the UK.
Here are some photos from our manufacturing stand:
Despite the fact that some designers consider outsourcing in the UK costly compared to manufacturing in other countries, we have had businesses who saw value in being able to visit the factory any time they needed to. Among other benefits are reduced cost of travel to the manufacturing site, being able to track the order and have greater control over production process as well as apply changes to the final product as required. Not to mention the fact that you also get to avoid international currency transfer fees because you are now paying to a UK based manufacturer. In the long run, there is so much potential in outsourcing in the UK as well as being able to deliver sustainable fashion to the public.
On the less serious side of things, loved the fire alarm!!! It went off during the Partners in Production seminar delivered by Simon Platts of ASOS, David Trotter from Muggi, Sunny Patel from Meesha Group, chaired by Kate Hills. Things were sorted in minutes thanks to the efficient crew on site though a couple of minutes outside the building helped us get a bit of sunshine :).
Lluks London Stand In The Brand Hall
With international visitors doubled this year, we saw rising interest for our Lluks London collection from Far East and Middle East buyers. Not as busy as the Manufacturer's Hall which I believe is down to the fact that this is the debut year of the hall, 43 British made brands showcased their products. Keeping the traditions of British made products, brand owners (and us) had a chance to speak directly to potential customers and buyers face to face.
Our Ineffable Coat was the winner! It stole hearts of many ladies who loved it for its softness of fabric and soft silhouette lined while needing no accessories to jazz it up.