Why making in the UK matters - In conversation with Kate Hills

In a world where fast fashion and global supply chains dominate, the value of UK manufacturing is often overlooked. Yet, for those who truly understand the importance of local production, it’s clear that making in the UK offers unparalleled benefits, both for businesses and consumers.

As a brand that values quality, sustainability, and craftsmanship, it's no surprise that we are committed to making our caftans in the UK. But why is UK manufacturing so important, not just for our designs but for the fashion industry as a whole?

(Image c/o Dvora Photography)

Kate Hills, the founder of Make It British, has long been an advocate for supporting local production. She highlights that, “Manufacturing in the UK is a powerful way to help regenerate the economy, reduce our carbon footprint, and support local craftsmanship.” This philosophy has guided Cwene’s approach, ensuring our caftans are made in small, carefully selected workshops right here in the UK, rather than relying on mass production overseas.

Kate has spent over a decade advocating for the revival of UK manufacturing. Her journey, from launching an e-commerce business to creating the "Meet the Manufacturer" trade show, has shaped her perspective on why keeping production local is essential.

Here, Kate shares her insights on why UK manufacturing matters now more than ever.

Kate’s journey into advocating for UK-made goods began with a simple desire to bring British manufacturing to the forefront. She recalls, “When I started, I had this big idea for an online marketplace for British-made goods, but I knew absolutely nothing about selling online.” Her passion for the industry and her commitment to supporting local manufacturers became the foundation of Make It British. However, it was not until she realised the massive gap in the market that she truly saw the value of UK manufacturing. “The businesses that wanted to work with UK manufacturers didn’t know how to find them, and the manufacturers didn’t know how to find their customers,” Kate explains.

Through her blog and eventual trade shows, Kate helped to bridge this gap, making it easier for businesses and manufacturers to connect. “I wanted to create a space where people could go to find UK factories, fabrics, trims, and everything needed to make a fashion or textile product. That was the birth of 'Meet the Manufacturer.'”

According to Kate, there are several key reasons why making in the UK is vital. One of the benefits of UK manufacturing is the ability to work closely with local artisans. The UK has a long history of textile and garment production, and many of the skills required for creating high-quality garments have been passed down through generations. Working within the UK offers transparency. “When you produce locally, you know exactly where your goods are being made and under what conditions. You can build relationships with your manufacturers, which helps to ensure quality and fair wages.”

Kate also believes that UK manufacturing allows for faster turnaround times. “In the past, the lead times for importing products were ridiculous. When you're making in the UK, you can get products to market much faster, which is a huge advantage, especially in industries like fashion where trends change rapidly.”

Moreover, supporting UK manufacturers boosts the local economy. “By choosing UK-made goods, you’re not just supporting individual businesses, you’re helping to preserve jobs in the UK. You’re keeping the skills alive and ensuring that they’re passed down to the next generation,” Kate adds.

The slow fashion movement encourages us to take a step back from fast fashion’s constant churn of cheap, disposable garments and focus on quality, durability, and ethical production. At Cwene, we believe that slow fashion is not just a trend, but a necessary shift in how we approach our wardrobes and our impact on the planet. By creating pieces that are made to last, we reduce waste and encourage consumers to invest in pieces that have a lasting value.

“Consumers are starting to realise that the true cost of fast fashion is far higher than we once thought – in terms of both the environment and the people involved in the production process,” says Kate. “Buying locally made products is one of the most effective ways to reduce that impact.”

The UK has long been a hub for skilled craftsmanship, and Kate believes that manufacturing in the UK is about more than just producing goods – it's about creating high-quality, innovative products that people value. “Many of the UK manufacturers I work with are incredibly skilled. They’re passionate about what they do and are constantly innovating,” Kate says. “When you support them, you’re supporting true craftsmanship, which can’t be replicated in mass-produced goods from overseas.”

Kate’s own work with UK manufacturers, including her time spent visiting factories and meeting the people behind these businesses, has given her a deep appreciation for their dedication. “When you visit a factory and see the passion that goes into every product, it’s inspiring. The people behind UK manufacturing are the unsung heroes of our economy.”

As we look to the future, Kate is optimistic about the continued growth of UK manufacturing, especially as consumers become more aware of the environmental and social impacts of their purchasing decisions. “People are becoming more conscious of where their products come from and how they’re made,” Kate explains. “They want to support businesses that are committed to sustainability and fair practices, and UK manufacturers are leading the charge in this area.”

While making in the UK can come with a higher price tag, the benefits far outweigh the costs. Supporting local businesses and manufacturers, ensuring ethical working conditions, and contributing to a greener planet are just some of the reasons why UK-made fashion is worth the investment.

By choosing to wear a brand like Cwene, you’re not just purchasing a beautifully crafted caftan – you’re supporting a more sustainable future for the fashion industry. It’s about investing in quality, supporting local economies, and being part of the movement towards a more responsible and thoughtful fashion world.

As Kate Hills says, “When you buy British-made products, you’re not just supporting a business – you’re supporting a better future for the industry and the environment.”

The importance of making in the UK is something Kate Hills has championed for years, and her efforts have led to a growing movement that values quality, sustainability, and local production. For Kate, it’s clear: “When you make in the UK, you’re not just creating a product - you’re creating a legacy.”