UKFT Rise supports next generation of fashion leaders

By: Petah Marian - 18 June 2012 12:26

I had the pleasure of attending the UK Fashion and Textile Association's first UKFT Rise event on Thursday night.

UKFT Rise is a new network for the next generation rising up in the fashion and textile industry. It will be a quarterly event with a selection of inspirational speakers from across the sector.

Asos founder and CEO Nick Robertson was guest speaker, talking about his experiences growing the online fashion retailer as well as the challenges facing the industry.

Describing why the industry body launched the programme, UKFT chairman Peter Lucas said: "We spoke to many people in the industry who said there was a lack of resource for the younger generation. Our peers built their businesses on networking with customers, competitors and suppliers, building strong career-long relationships. This is difficult to do in today's fast paced business world and these relationships are harder to form.

"We think it is so important that the next leaders of this industry can gain knowledge and experience to help them build their careers and their businesses. To do this in a non-intimidating and relaxed atmosphere with fantastic inspirational speakers is something we feel is our duty to fulfil for all young ambitious people in fashion and textiles."