British industry focuses on niche machinery

The British textile machinery companies are in niche market and they have been doing quite well in the Asian market, particularly China, said Dr Alan Little, Director of the British Textile Machinery Association (BTMA). The BTMA members are mostly concentrating on advanced textiles, composites and lab equipment, which need a lot of research and development works. Because of this these companies are constantly working with collaborations with universities and research bodies, said Dr Little.

There is some reshoring happening in the UK. Said BTMA Director: “In the Manchester area, recently a spinning mill has been opened. But they are not traditional textiles. Rather, they are focused on synthetic fibres, specialised textiles. And the best market for these advanced textiles are in Europe itself. Besides, we have the US and Asian markets too.”

BTMA has about 47 members. “The increase in membership has been slow and steady in the last three to four years. Since these companies are in niche markets, their technologies are closely guarded and they promote their wares also selectively,” said Dr Little.