Showcase feature

Heathcoat supplied fabrics featured by the UK Fashion & Textile Association (UKFT) at the recent Première Vision, Paris exhibition, showcasing the eco-responsible innovation of the UK textile sector.

UKFT, with support from Scottish Development International and the Department for International Trade, was highlighting the sustainable and innovative solutions that UK textiles can offer buyers and designers at the foremost fashion community event. Featuring Autumn-Winter 2023 trends and with a focus on eco-responsibility, Première Vision attracted over 23,000 visitors to the Parc des Expositions, Villepinte venue.

Through an eye-catching stand design and digital content, buyers were able to learn more about the UK’s unique craftsmanship, capability and creativity, as well as explore how UK textile designers, manufacturers and innovators can help companies across the globe achieve the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals in just eight years.

Driving sustainable manufacturing

The UK is on an ambitious journey towards a circular fashion and textiles economy. UKFT is working with industry and researchers, co-creating innovations along the entire supply chain, pushing boundaries to create a planet and people-positive future.

Heathcoat is a key driver of textile innovation and sustainable manufacturing practices in the UK textile industry.

Showcasing fabrics for reduced environmental impact

Heathcoat textiles displayed on the UKFT stand included an industry-first, 100% recycled nylon tulle which also incorporates a fully REACH compliant formaldehyde-free dressing, being better for human health and the environment, and a new Spacetec® spacer fabric using recycled polyester.

Spacetec® is a 3D knitted construction developed to create a layer of air between two surfaces. Like many other materials, it was initially developed for applications in aviation and medicine. It has become familiar in sports clothing, military and police protective garments and automotive interiors; it can also be found in many industrial applications as well as shoes, bags and fashion clothing.

Thanks to current recycling technology, used plastic (PET) bottles can be turned into eco-friendly Spacetec® textiles. Heathcoat has also started producing certified Seaqual products. Seaqual is a regenerated yarn using recycled ocean plastic waste. Using polyester made from recycled bottles or ocean plastic waste instead of new polyester drastically reduces the amount of oil and water and energy used and minimises CO2 emissions by around 75% compared with using raw materials.

 

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Contact our knitting sales & development teams to help build your own planet and people-positive textile future.