The Future

As we’re part way through 2008 when compiling this report, we can update members on our progress. We have had a strong start to the year. The revamped membership services have provided core support to move the Association on. There’s always constant change within the textile arena, the sector is seriously affected by external forces, such as weather patterns, petrol rises, earthquakes, world politics, exchange rates, taxes etc. All of which provide issues and opportunities for textile business, some businesses are thriving, new starts emerging, and development opportunities being grasped, some however cannot react quick enough.

Modern companies are taking charge of leading innovation, in ICT web trading, and using advanced materials to make the transport and construction industries more efficient, to develop materials to make vehicles and buildings more durable, and the environment greener. With help and assistance, opportunities are there.

Focusing on change and new opportunities, EMTEX are in the process of finalising 6 successful ERDF projects. WIN:INIT2oo2, Business ICT Bureau, Global Trading, Future Industry and Design Network are due to close in June, and INVACT in August. These have served members well and have contributed significantly towards enabling companies to be more IT efficient and effective, and internationally aware. It’s now time to redirect and focus on the future— a textile environment with different skills and business models, using developments in design, technology and advanced materials. Keeping in step with the times.

EMTEX are currently bidding for several new projects that will encourage waste reduction and recycling, provide networks for advanced materials and applications, and create a Materials based network.

Business Getting Tougher

A gradual increase in tax, inflation, rising energy and fuel costs, and a weak pound against the Euro has finally surfaced into the business economy. The additional costs are often too great to pass on, especially for small struggling companies. The Government has virtually withdrawn all central business support, the BERR is now a shadow of its former self, and the business support in this region is left to EMDA. Clothing and Textiles is “not on the agenda”, however, advanced materials, textiles and composites are. EMTEX has been approached by EMDA to develop a new sector study containing clothing and textiles. It will be developed by the materials sector and will encompass METALS, PLASTICS, GLASS, WOOD, etc. EMTEX is currently carrying out a regional mapping exercise for EMDA, and have submitted 3 ERDF bids for business development for the next 3 years.

Sourcing Update

No modern business can ignore the need to source products from lower cost countries. EMTEX has been leading the field since 1999 when it first visited China, since then it has worked in Lithuania, Turkey, Vietnam, Thailand, Taiwan and many other low cost countries.

Since 2006, Vietnam has seen a lot of growth and activity and EMTEX has opened several new networks for UK companies to access competitive products. We are still active in Ho Chi Minh City with a visit taking place as we go to press. This mission will look for supplier connections for over 12 more UK companies....over 30 have been helped in the past 2 years.

Please contact the office for more information and help. Tel: 01623 440612 or email: enquiries@emtex.org.uk

Development of Services

A constantly challenging business environment helps keep us on our toes. We continually monitor our support services, to ensure that members receive maximum benefit. Work took place during 2007 to review our packages of support, and this has been updated and amended for 2008. See below for the current list of free and value for money chargeable services.

Registered Office Ashfield Business Centre The Idlewells Sutton in Ashfield Notts NG17 1BP
Registered Number 2864917