The United Kingdom’s textile landscape blends centuries-old tradition with cutting-edge innovation, creating a vibrant industry that continues to influence global manufacturing standards. The Design Agent’s online marketplace connects buyers with exclusive surface pattern designs from top UK textile studios, offering us a unique perspective on the industry.
In this article, we explore the top 10 textile manufacturing companies in the UK, showcasing their advanced practices, sustainability initiatives, and significant contributions to British manufacturing excellence. From heritage textile mills to technical textile pioneers, these companies represent the best of what UK textile manufacturers have to offer today.
Top 10 Textile Manufacturing Companies in UK
Heritage fashion brands, forward-thinking manufacturers, historical power players – these companies represent the finest in UK textile production today. The Design Agent has proudly collaborated with many of these industry giants on exclusive surface pattern designs:
Abraham Moon & Sons
One of the last vertical woollen mills in the UK, Abraham Moon & Sons conducts all production processes, from dyeing to weaving, under one roof. Their commitment to British Lambswool, sustainability, and full traceability sets them apart in luxury textile manufacturing.
Quantum Clothing Group
Quantum has built an impressive global clothing manufacturing network for hosiery and intimate apparel. With design and operations based in the UK, their ethical practices and relationships with major retailers like Marks & Spencer demonstrate their fashion industry influence.
Textile Innovations
This B2B supplier is defined by its technical textiles and sustainable practices. By developing both semi-finished and finished high quality products, they've become a crucial support system for innovation throughout the UK textile sector.
Aos Ltd
The interior design world relies on Aos Ltd for exceptional upholstery fabrics and bespoke design services. What distinguishes them? A steadfast commitment to eco-friendly materials and sustainable manufacturing practices.
Coats
Dating back to the 1750s, Coats has evolved into the world's largest manufacturer of sewing threads. Their global reach spans 70 countries, with sustainability initiatives supporting applications from apparel and footwear to furniture and fiber optic cables.
Halley Stevensons
Based in Dundee, Scotland, Halley Stevensons is renowned for its expertise in plant-based finishes and waterproofed textiles, particularly waxed cotton – an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic waterproof materials.
Carrington Textiles
From their Lancashire roots has grown a global leader in workwear fabrics. Producing over 130 million meters annually, Carrington specializes in flame retardant, waterproof, and sustainable fabrics that serve industries worldwide.
Arville Textiles
When aerospace, defense, and automotive industries need technical woven textiles, they turn to Arville. Their integrated manufacturing offers bespoke solutions that meet the most demanding applications.
Boden Europe
Bold designs meet sustainable practices at this British clothing retailer. With carbon-neutral operations and extensive use of recycled materials, Boden's international presence demonstrates how sustainability and style can coexist with ease.
Kazareen Textile
At Kazareen, cutting-edge technology meets ethical production, creating fabrics of exceptional quality. Their commitment to sustainability throughout the supply chain has earned them trust in both fashion and home textile and decor sectors—precisely the kind of responsible manufacturers whose designs are increasingly sought after by The Design Agent's selective clients.
How big is the textile industry in the UK?
The textile industry is a cornerstone of the UK economy. According to a 2023 Oxford Economics report, the UK textile industry contributed a substantial £62 billion to the annual GDP and employed around 1.3 million people. These impressive numbers mean that design, manufacturing, and retail accounted for 1 in every 25 jobs in the UK.
Today, the textile industry remains a vital contributor to the economy, especially in regions with strong manufacturing heritage. The Observatory of Economic Complexity found that UK textile exports totaled £5.5 billion in 2023. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) already comprise over 95% of businesses in the sector, creating a diverse ecosystem of specialized expertise across the nation.
What role does sustainability play in the UK textile industry?
Sustainability has become a core focus for UK textile companies. From using organic and recycled materials to adopting closed-loop manufacturing systems, the industry is evolving to meet both environmental standards and consumer expectations.
Initiatives like WRAP's Textiles 2030 are reshaping the sector with ambitious goals to reduce the carbon footprint of new textile products by 50% and water usage by 30%. This program promotes circular practices such as fiber-to-fiber recycling and durable product design.
The Circular Fashion Innovation Network (CFIN) further bolsters these efforts by focusing on decarbonizing manufacturing processes, enhancing recycling infrastructure, and fostering circular business models that minimize waste and environmental impact.
UK legislation, including UK REACH and the Green Claims Code, ensures compliance with ethical practices and transparency in environmental claims. These regulatory frameworks have driven innovation in all facets of the textile industry, with many of the top 10 UK manufacturers implementing water recycling systems, renewable energy sources, and biodegradable material development.
FAQs
What are some innovative technologies used In UK textile manufacturing?
UK textile manufacturers are using trailblazing technological advances to enhance production efficiency and product quality. Automation and robotics now streamline manufacturing processes while improving sustainability. Smart textiles with embedded sensors are revolutionizing healthcare and sports applications, while advanced 3D technology and AI systems enable customized garment production, helping reduce overstock.
Who is the largest producer of textiles in the UK?
Coats Group PLC stands as a major player and leading textile company in the UK industry. With operations spanning 50 countries, this thread manufacturing giant has established its prominence through both historical legacy and continuous innovation.
Experience the best of British textiles with The Design Agent. Shop directly from the UK's top textile design studios and access exclusive surface pattern designs for apparel, home furnishings, and stationery. Discover your new favorites today!
