Industry's conveyor belt of talent must be maintained

The success of last season’s London Fashion Week and the credibility of the UK’s designers and fashion brands worldwide proves how important the fashion industry has become to UK PLC. The industry is certain to grow just as others risk decline.

Each year fashion courses produce lots of new talent from our colleges and universities. There continues to be an exciting choice of creative and commercial opportunities for the right people, even during difficult trading times. The problem lies in the fine-tuning of those individuals. Passing your driving test does not mean you are a competent driver right away. By the same token it is rare to find a young person who has the commercial edge needed to design, buy or plan for the right product. They need opportunities to commercialise their skills in that first job, or through internships and academy environments.

Next year will bring growth to the sector. There will be penetration into foreign markets by UK brands, and our expertise and flair will have an increasing influence in the global economy. This has already started with an increase in young talent moving abroad to work in fashion in Australia and the Far East.

This is why it is vital that increased effort is put into nurturing and rewarding new talent, if we are to avoid the severe shortage that will stifle the momentum now building. Those established in the industry need to make training and development part of their growth strategy. Any initiative that “restocks the shelves” with flair and talent, whilst combining experience, is to be celebrated so please join us in doing so.

Stephen Selby, managing director, Success Appointments

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