BTMA - British Textile Machinery Association
BTMA: INDEPENDENCE
The independence of many BTMA member companies is equally as impressive as their heritage.
"Many have retained the UK as their base for virtually all production – even as the trend for outsourcing has spread beyond even Europe," says Alan Little. "This is worth remarking on because the general policy of successive governments in the UK has been to avoid offering much help to the textile machinery manufacturing sector, unlike that provided elsewhere in Europe.
"As a not-for-profit organisation, however, the BTMA has acted as an interface between UK companies and the world's textile manufacturers for the past seventy years. There are countless instances of UK companies winning contracts as a direct result of an initial enquiry to the BTMA by a manufacturer which had never previously done business with a UK supplier."
"The existence of the BTMA is a significant factor in allowing UK textile machinery and associated companies continue to thrive in an increasingly competitive global market." Despite their independence. Mr Little also notes a new willingness for collaboration among BTMA members.
"Much of this arises from companies coming together at exhibitions around the world and having informal conversations that spark ideas. It's another very encouraging development."
Successful innovation needs a foundation of experience and expertise, and UK textile machinery firms are known for their leadership in technology development in all areas of textile production.