The scheme is set to provide assistance to 15 UK-based heritage manufacturers over the next three years, with support valued at more than £500k ($679k).
Source Fashion will establish a dedicated British Heritage Pavilion within the show in February 2026 to highlight the craftsmanship of the selected manufacturers.
To establish long-term visibility and growth of these businesses, the show will support them for three consecutive editions.
Source Fashion event director Suzanne Ellingham said: “As Source Fashion grows into the largest manufacturing sourcing show in Europe, we believe it’s our responsibility to support the brilliant manufacturers we have here in the UK.
“This is about more than just giving away stands. We’re investing in the future of British manufacturing by helping these businesses tell their stories, connect with international buyers, and grow sustainably. It’s a small way that we can give back, while also making sure UK manufacturing is properly represented on the global stage.”
The scheme is open for UK-based manufacturers, ranging from heritage textile producers in Scotland to component specialists in the Midlands and South.
It is designed to address the challenge faced by British producers who often find it difficult to cover exhibition costs, particularly when competing against government-subsidised international counterparts.
Each participating business will be granted a free stand at three consecutive Source Fashion shows scheduled in January and July 2026 and January 2027.
Additionally, they will receive dedicated PR and marketing campaigns and exposure through Source Fashion's global content channels.
“This initiative will become a permanent fixture of the show. Every 18 months, we’ll refresh the pavilion with a new group of 15–20 heritage manufacturers and help them grow with us. The goal is that, by show four, they’re thriving, confident exhibitors in their own right. If they’re not quite there yet, that’s okay too. This is about building something lasting, not transactional,” Ellingham added.
Source Fashion will collaborate with their advisory board in the selection process, with the first full cohort of heritage manufacturers set to be announced in September 2025.
Although most participants remain confidential, organisers have confirmed the start of outreach with businesses such as Courtnery and Co and Alexander Manufacturing already slated to join the inaugural pavilion.
SP&KO Consultancy founder Simon Platt said: “I’m really pleased to see the initiative that Source has taken to give 15 heritage UK manufacturers the opportunity to exhibit at Source Fashion. British manufacturing remains a very important part of any global supply mix and giving these businesses the space to showcase what they do, and how they can fit into a retailer or brand’s sourcing strategy, is a fantastic opportunity.”
The July edition of Source Fashion saw a 23% increase in visitor footfall compared to last year.
Industry professionals from top fashion brands including LVMH, Burberry, John Lewis, Marks & Spencer, Primark convened at the show to delve into strategies for responsible sourcing and building ethical supply chains that align with future demands.
