Future Fashion Factory Director meets with Princess of Wales

Category: Future Fashion Factory News
Date: Thursday 28 September 2023

This week, the Princess of Wales visited textiles manufacturers in Leeds and Lancaster to learn more about the heritage, history and innovation of the textiles industry, the technical processes involved and how vital the sector is to the UK economy.

Professor Stephen Russell and members of the Hainsworth team meeting Her Royal Highness. ©Kensington Palace

We are proud to announce that FFF Director, Professor Stephen Russell, was chosen specifically to meet with the Princess as part of this informative royal visit, chosen for his wealth of expertise in the area of textiles innovation and circularity.

Specifically, the Princess heard about how the industry is transforming to place emphasis on sustainable practices as well as how it is working with academic institutions to educate and upskill young people.

HRH Kate Middleton arriving at AW Hainsworth. ©Getty

Starting her day in Leeds, the Princess visited long-time Future Fashion Factory collaborators, AW Hainsworth, which, in 1958, bought William Lupton & Co, a mill that was owned by the Princess’ great-great grandfather.

Today, AW Hainsworth is proud to hold a Royal Warrant and its fabrics were on display during the Coronations of both Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth in 1953 and His Majesty The King earlier this year.

During her time at AW Hainsworth, Her Royal Highness met with Prof Russell to discuss the importance of innovation in the textiles industry as it looks to the future.