Society of Dyers and Colourists announces strategic partnership with Society of Leather Technologists and Chemists
Society of Dyers and Colourists (SDC) and the Society of Leather Technologists and Chemists (SLTC) have agreed a strategic partnership to create new opportunities for membership, knowledge sharing and collaboration between the two professional organisations.
Approved by the SLTC Council and SDC Board, the partnership introduces reciprocal membership arrangements, enabling members of both organisations to access the other Society and benefit from a wider professional network spanning colour science, textile coloration and leather technology. This reciprocal membership is free of charge as long as the membership fees of the home Society remain fully paid up.
The partnership also opens additional routes to professional recognition for members. SLTC members who become voting members of SDC and hold a level 6 qualification or equivalent and have worked in an appropriate colour-related occupation for at least two years, can apply to become a Chartered Colourist (CCol). Members of either organisation with at least ten years’ experience can apply for Fellowship (FLSTC and FSDC). All designations remain subject to each Society’s eligibility criteria and fees, and holders must stay current members of both societies.
SLTC is a non-profit international learned society, with charity status, serving the leather sector and dedicated to the future of the leather industry, while the SDC is an educational charity supporting the advancement of colour science and technology worldwide. Members of both societies will benefit from a wider professional network, shared events and knowledge-sharing opportunities, with joint initiatives and events to follow as the partnership develops.
SLTC President Deborah Taylor said: “Our societies share a commitment to knowledge exchange and technical excellence, and this partnership gives us a practical way to build on that shared purpose. I look forward to seeing our members exchange ideas, develop their skills and gain wider recognition for the expertise they bring to the leather and textile industries.”
SDC President, Liz Straughan, said: “Broadening the Society’s reach beyond textiles is a priority for my presidential year, and this partnership with the SLTC is an important step. Leather and textiles share a great deal when it comes to colour, chemistry and technical challenge, and bringing our members together will create valuable opportunities to learn from one another.”
The two societies will now agree on the practical arrangements for managing memberships and plan joint communications and events for members.