Salford's Textile Heritage
Salford and neighbouring Manchester were at the heart of the Industrial Revolution, when cotton mills transformed the region into the workshop of the world. Mills lined the River Irwell and the canals, and Salford's docks handled raw cotton and finished goods. While mass production largely moved overseas in the twentieth century, a new generation of manufacturers is reviving British textiles, focusing on quality, craftsmanship and sustainability.
Today, the North West combines heritage mills, innovative fabric producers and fast-growing fashion brands. Here are ten textile manufacturers and fashion makers with strong connections to Salford and the region.
The Top 10 Textile Manufacturers
1. Private White V.C.
Private White V.C. manufactures premium menswear and outerwear in a historic factory in Salford, close to the River Irwell. Its commitment to British craftsmanship, high-quality materials and timeless design has made it an internationally respected brand and a symbol of Salford's manufacturing revival.
2. English Fine Cottons
Based in Tameside, English Fine Cottons restored cotton spinning to Greater Manchester, producing premium yarns for British clothing and textile brands. It represents the return of a historic industry to the region.
3. In The Style
In The Style is a fashion brand that grew from Salford, known for collaborations with influencers and celebrities. Its rapid growth highlights the strength of Greater Manchester's digital fashion sector.
4. Boohoo Group
Headquartered in Manchester, Boohoo Group is one of the UK's largest online fashion retailers. Its presence has helped establish the region as a hub for fashion e-commerce, design and supply chain innovation.
5. Panaz
Based in Lancashire, Panaz designs and manufactures contract fabrics for hotels, healthcare, cruise ships and commercial interiors, with a focus on performance and sustainability.
6. Brisbane Moss
Brisbane Moss is a historic mill producing high-quality cotton fabrics such as corduroy, moleskin and drill, supplied to fashion brands worldwide.
7. Lancashire Textiles
Lancashire Textiles manufactures duvets, pillows and bedding products in the North West, supplying retailers, hospitality and healthcare markets.
8. Henri Lloyd
Founded in Manchester, Henri Lloyd became a world-renowned name in sailing and technical outerwear, known for innovation in waterproof fabrics.
9. AW Hainsworth
AW Hainsworth is a Yorkshire woollen mill with centuries of history, producing ceremonial cloth, interior fabrics and technical textiles used across the UK.
10. Christy
Christy has a long heritage in luxury towels and bedding rooted in the North West, and the brand remains a familiar name in British homes.
The Revival of British Textiles
Consumers are increasingly seeking quality, provenance and sustainability. Made-in-Britain labels signal ethical production, shorter supply chains and craftsmanship. Fashion brands are reshoring some production to respond quickly to trends and reduce environmental impact. Salford and Manchester's skilled workforce, design talent and heritage give the region a strong advantage.
Sustainability and Innovation
Textile manufacturers are investing in recycled fibres, organic cotton, low-impact dyes and circular business models such as repair and resale. Technical textiles, used in healthcare, construction, automotive and defence, are a growing area of innovation. Universities in the region contribute research in materials science, smart textiles and sustainable fashion.
Working With a Textile Manufacturer
Brands seeking manufacturing partners should consider minimum order quantities, lead times, quality control, certifications and ethical standards. Visiting factories, requesting samples and discussing sustainability policies are essential steps. Local manufacturing can offer faster turnaround, easier communication and stronger brand storytelling.
Textile Trends
Demand for traceable supply chains is growing, driven by consumers and regulation. Digital printing enables small, customised runs. Heritage brands are attracting global audiences through e-commerce, while fashion businesses face increasing scrutiny over labour standards and environmental impact.
Conclusion
Salford's textile story continues, blending industrial heritage with modern craftsmanship and digital innovation. The manufacturers above demonstrate the enduring strength of British textiles and the region's capacity to produce world-class products. Whether you are a brand, retailer or consumer, supporting local manufacturing helps keep this proud tradition alive.
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