Rt Hon Sir Alec Shelbrooke MP visited Wetherby-based Arville Textiles on Friday 10th July to see first-hand how one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of world-class technical textiles is investing in advanced manufacturing, innovation and skills to support some of the nation’s most critical industries.
The visit showcased Arville’s continued investment in manufacturing innovation, alongside its commitment to developing the next generation of skilled engineers through an award winning apprenticeship scheme and specialist training, helping to strengthen the future of British technical textile manufacturing.
As part of its ongoing transformation programme, Arville has recently taken delivery of a 3.9-metre-wide twin beam Tsudakoma Airjet loom equipped with digital inspection technology – the first of four new looms representing a £1 million investment. The new equipment will increase manufacturing capacity, improve competitiveness and further strengthen the company’s advanced weaving capabilities.
Developing future talent remains a key part of Arville’s long-term strategy. The business is working closely with Shahban Aziz and the Textile Centre of Excellence to champion apprenticeships and inspire more young people to pursue careers in advanced manufacturing, ensuring vital textile skills continue to be developed for future generations.
During the visit, Sir Alec toured Arville’s manufacturing facility which included the new Airjet loom, meeting members of the team and gaining an insight into the advanced textile solutions designed and manufactured on-site.
Steve Gill, Group Chief Executive Officer at Arville Textiles, said:
“We were delighted to welcome Sir Alec Shelbrooke to Arville and to showcase the world-class advanced manufacturing taking place here in Yorkshire.
It was a valuable opportunity to demonstrate how a long-established British manufacturer is investing in new technology, developing highly skilled apprentices and engineers, and strengthening UK capability across defence, aerospace and other critical industries.
We had a constructive discussion about the opportunities and challenges facing UK manufacturing, particularly the importance of resilient domestic supply chains and sovereign capability in defence. Given Sir Alec’s longstanding interest and experience in defence matters, we were grateful for his offer to explore how he may be able to support Arville in building stronger links with government and the defence sector as we continue to grow.
We appreciate Sir Alec taking the time to visit our business and look forward to continuing the conversation as we invest in innovation, create skilled jobs and expand our contribution to UK manufacturing.”
Sir Alec Shelbrooke MP said:
” I first visited Arville Textiles with the then Chancellor in 2014.
“The business works at the cutting edge of advanced manufacturing, pioneering the development of world-leading technical textiles.
“I was fascinated to learn more about their continued innovation and new range of high-performance products that are supplied around the globe from Wetherby, from military grade Kevlar helmets and stab vests to PPE and hoses that can withstand extreme conditions and environments.
“We are lucky to have a leading manufacturer continuing to invest in our local workforce and skills too, with an award-winning apprenticeship programme.”
Celebrating its 75th Anniversary, this family-owned business has built a worldwide reputation as an industry leader in technical textiles. Today, the company partners with large multinational organisations and specialist businesses across defence, aerospace, automotive, industrial safety, healthcare and many other sectors, designing and manufacturing high-performance textile solutions from its head office in Wetherby, West Yorkshire.
