The UK is facing a significant shortage of sewing machinist apprentices in the UK to satisfy the growing demands of the industry, particularly in light of an expanding secondhand clothing market.
Government data indicates that since the launch of the Level 2 Sewing Machinist Apprenticeship in 2018, only 130 individuals have enrolled in the program. This figure stands in stark contrast to expectations for the European secondhand goods sector, which is projected to reach £86 billion ($117.06 billion) over the next ten years, as reported by Future Market Insights.
The anticipated number of apprentices for the program was set at 450 in its inaugural year in England, followed by 400 each year thereafter, according to John West, the skills and training director for the UK Fashion and Textile Association (UKFT).
“The actual numbers fall way short of this, which is a real problem,” West noted. “British manufacturers are eager to bring clothing and textile production back from overseas to create shorter, more sustainable supply chains. At the same time, there’s a rapidly growing market for restored secondhand clothing.”
Major brands are seizing upon the consumer shift towards pre-owned fashion, with retailers like John Lewis, H&M, and Selfridges now offering these options.
This trend has intensified the need for skilled sewing machinists capable of repairing and restoring garments to a sellable state, according to Andrew Hill, director at Advanced Supply Chain (ASC).
“Pre-loved clothing isn’t meant to be perfect, but it often requires repairs and restoration to make it resellable. Rips and seams may need stitching, zippers may require sewing, or patches may need to be added. This work necessitates trained sewing machinists, and there simply aren’t enough available. Besides pre-loved items, sewing machinists are essential for restoring products returned by customers, ensuring they can be resold to prevent waste,” Hill explained.
In response to this skills gap, the UKFT has obtained additional funding for sewing machinist apprenticeships in England and has contributed to the Education Committee’s inquiry into further education.
The association also introduced ‘The Production Sewing Machinist Programme,’ an online course developed by industry experts.
This program includes seven courses featuring 48 lessons and over 100 activities that combine online learning with practical, hands-on experience.
“Fashion and textiles are underrepresented in the National Curriculum, especially for students under the age of 16. There just aren’t enough opportunities for young people who excel in hands-on work to nurture their talents. Addressing this issue could help overcome the stigma surrounding sewing skills and open the industry to a new generation of talent,” West stated.
Ultimately, as the shortage of sewing machinist apprentices in the UK continues to pose challenges, industry leaders are calling for increased support and solutions to develop the necessary skills to meet the demands of the thriving secondhand market.
