ROBOTICS AND REVOLUTION: TRANSFORMING NICHE TEXTILE MANUFACTURING FROM STREETWEAR TO SCHOOL UNIFORM

Sargent, Wilf; Holderbaum, William; Power, Jess

Abstract

The UK textile manufacturing sector faces persistent challenges, particularly in small-batch production, where high labour costs, limited automation, and slow digital adoption hinder efficiency and competitiveness. This paper examines case studies from the North of England, spanning streetwear, cycling apparel, school uniforms, handmade leather goods, and industrial textiles, to highlight barriers and opportunities for modernising production.

First, we explore the role of digitisation in small-scale manufacturing, assessing the impact of digital work instructions, stock monitoring, and order management on productivity. Next, we address the difficulties of automating textile handling and sewing operations, comparing current small-batch practices with more advanced approaches available in mass manufacture. Finally, we discuss how long-established efficiency methodologies, such as lean manufacturing, remain underutilised in small-scale textile production. While full automation may be impractical in many areas, cultural shifts towards process improvement can drive significant gains without heavy investment.

By analysing real-world examples, this paper presents a roadmap for small to medium scale textile manufacturers to enhance sustainability and competitiveness through strategic digital adoption, targeted automation and robotics, and process optimisation. These lessons offer valuable insights for industry stakeholders, policymakers, and researchers seeking practical pathways to a resilient and future-proof the smaller niche textile industries.

• Presentation Conference Type: Conference Abstract
• Conference Name: TIWC 2025: Fibre to Future: Transforming Fashion and Textiles through Sustainability and Digitalisation
• Start Date: Oct 7, 2025
• End Date: Oct 10, 2025
• Acceptance Date: May 27, 2025
• Deposit Date: Jun 30, 2025
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed