This week, 11th – 14th April, FEL Director, Caroline Ash introduced two very different groups to the factory floor and each stage of the garment making life cycle.
First up was a group from M&S and Caroline adapted their CPPD to relate to their own job roles and industry knowledge. Caroline said: “We had M&S in for a seminar on Thursday. It was a very successful tour with the group taking a keen interest in all aspects of the seminar, and learning a lot of new information.”
Feedback from the M&S group included:
“Very good to see visuals of how a factory works on a day to day. Overall very good, thanks.”
“The seminar felt super informative, no time wasted, it felt like the right length of time for the session. Thank-you very much!”
“It was amazing to see the factory in person, to see the lay planning. This was the first time I’ve been to a factory. I really enjoyed it.”
“Very great, I learned a lot and enjoyed the experience.”
“Very knowledgeable speaker with loads of experience.”
“My first factory visit, I learnt loads thanks. The speed of different processes was really interesting.”
“I loved the factory tour.”
Next up was a group of students all the way from Fordham University, USA, keen to learn about ethical and sustainable practices coming through in the industry. Caroline added: “On Friday we had the fabulous Fordham University from the USA, in for the third time this year. They absolute loved the session and were extremely enthusiastic asking loads of questions. A really enjoyable way to end the week.”
“I learnt about the logistics and management of making clothes as well as the benefits of using Fashion-Enter V’s a Chinese manufacturer. The green washing that goes on, PPR, sustainability etc.”
“I have never been to a factory before so I learned so much about how clothes are made. I loved learning about the changes that are being made to make fashion more ethical and sustainable. Thank-you, the instructor was lovely.”
“Really enjoyed hearing all the information on manufacturing as well as how new sustainable efficiencies are being prioritised. Really enjoyed your presentation.”
“I have learned so much about the fashion industry and garment making. I enjoyed understanding the different stitches and physically seeing the pieces being made. Super great and interesting experience.”
“It was a lovely tour and learnt more about such an interesting topic.”
“This seminar was very interesting – I learned how a sustainable factory is run and how garments are designed / made. Thank-you for a wonderful tour.”