SDC UK Coloration and Finishing Conference to focus on AI, compliance and the future of textile manufacturing
The Society of Dyers and Colourists (SDC) has announced details of its UK Coloration and Finishing Conference for 2026, bringing together professionals from textile manufacturers, dyehouses, brands, solution providers and educational providers to explore the technologies, regulations and innovations shaping the future of the industry.
Taking place on 15 October at the Cedar Court Hotel in Bradford, the conference builds on the success of previous years and has established itself as one of the UK’s leading technical events for coloration and finishing professionals.
The textile industry continues to face increasing pressure from evolving legislation, sustainability requirements, supply chain transparency demands and rapid technological change. The 2026 conference has therefore been designed to provide delegates with practical, real-world knowledge that can be applied directly within manufacturing environments.
The conference programme will bring together leading voices from across the textile sector, covering topics including the role of artificial intelligence in textile production, regulation, sustainability, environmental compliance and manufacturing innovation. Confirmed speakers include Spence Seaman (Environment Agency), Mark Shayler, Ava Kenny-Colwell (UKFT), Andres Bel Dean (In4Group), and Matt Ingram (Cornelsen), with additional speakers expected to be announced over the coming months.
Andrew Filarowski, Technical Director at the Society of Dyers and Colourists, said: “The textile industry is evolving at an unprecedented pace. From advances in artificial intelligence to increasingly complex compliance requirements, businesses need access to reliable technical knowledge and practical insight to remain competitive. The SDC UK Conference provides a valuable opportunity for professionals from across the supply chain to come together, share expertise and explore the solutions that are already shaping the future of our industry.”
Importantly, attendance remains completely free of charge thanks to financial support from the Society of Dyers and Colourists. By removing financial barriers to participation, the Society aims to ensure that high-quality technical knowledge remains accessible to professionals across the colouration community, supporting skills development throughout the sector.
Exhibition and sponsorship opportunities are also available for organisations wishing to engage directly with a highly targeted audience of technical professionals and decision-makers. The conference offers exhibitors the opportunity to showcase innovations in machinery, chemicals, dyes, software, testing, sustainability and manufacturing services while strengthening their visibility within the UK colouration sector.
The Society will also continue its student bursary initiative, enabling educational providers to nominate two students for fully funded places at the conference.
Further information, including delegate registration, exhibition opportunities and sponsorship packages, please visit SDC UK – 4th Conference Coloration and Finishing 2026.