An open letter calls on UK fashion retailers to pledge 1% of their production to Leicester.

• The initiative is backed by trade unions, campaigners, and community groups.
• Twenty-four retailers, including M&S, Next, and Matalan, are targeted in the appeal.
• The letter highlights Leicester as a potential hub for ethical fashion production.
• Campaigners emphasise the need for responsible sourcing within the UK.

An open letter has been issued by various trade unions and campaign groups, urging 24 UK fashion retailers, such as M&S, Next, and Matalan, to pledge 1% of their production to Leicester. This initiative aims to bolster local manufacturing, impacting both the community and the industry significantly.

The proposal, supported by prominent organisations including Labour Behind the Label, GMB Union, and IWGB Union, alongside educational and community groups, is portrayed as a strategic move to revitalise Leicester’s manufacturing sector. These groups believe that by securing even a small portion of production locally, fashion brands can demonstrate their commitment to responsible business practices.

The letter explicitly calls for UK brands to acknowledge the importance of adapting to current socio-economic conditions. It suggests that sourcing 1% of production from Leicester would not only support ethical manufacturing practices but also enhance brands’ reputational standing and environmental accountability.

Alena Ivanova, campaigns lead at Labour Behind the Label, states, “We call on UK fashion brands to act now and show they are truly committed to making a positive difference for communities here.” Her advocacy highlights the ongoing challenges faced by garment workers who’ve dedicated years to the industry, yet face job insecurity due to overseas production shifts.

This appeal positions Leicester as a potential beacon for ethical fashion production, advocating for fair wages, guaranteeing workers’ rights, and focusing on workforce training and upskilling. The campaign believes these steps are crucial for creating a sustainable and responsible fashion sector within the UK.

The 1% pledge is seen as a strategic opportunity to foster ethical practices and boost local economies.