Discover the future of fashion at Unlocking Digital Fashion Tools, an industry-focused showcase from the ASBCI and Manchester Fashion Institute at Manchester Metropolitan University.
Designed to accelerate digital transformation and collaboration, the event brings together industry leaders, educators, and technology providers to explore how digital innovation is reshaping fashion for a more sustainable and profitable future. The showcase offers a rare chance to experience emerging technologies in one location and to learn how digital tools can streamline processes, reduce waste, and support rapidly evolving job roles.
When: Wednesday 13 May 2026 at the Manchester Fashion Institute starting at 9.45am for tea, coffee and registration and finishing at 4.30pm and includes lunch.
What the experience will cover:
- A central feature of the day is Style3D’s Styleverse garment simulation hub, offering guided, interactive demonstrations. Surrounding technologies illustrate digital connectivity across the entire fashion and textiles workflow, showing how each tool links together to create a seamless end-to-end ecosystem.
- Live demonstrations include digital knitting by Shima Seiki, featuring the Apex Fizz 3D knit prototyping software, digital textile testing by James Heal, and advanced 3D body scanners from Central Scanning/TriMech Group.
- Attendees can take part in demonstration-led explorations of digital fabric twin systems and cutting‑edge robotics research supporting the future of UK micro-manufacturing
- Hands-on, demonstration-led sessions in 3D prototyping and AI for rapid product development.
- The event aims to foster collaboration and address industry-wide challenges through open knowledge exchange and meaningful professional connections.
- Valuable networking opportunities
Agenda Summary:
9.45am – 10.00am – Registration & coffee
10.00am – 10.15am – Welcome and Introductions
10.15am – 11.10am – Demo 1 SCANNING
11.10am – 12.15pm – Demo 2 DIGITAL TWIN TEXTILES
12.15pm – 1.10 pm – Demo 3 SYTLEVERSE
1.10pm – 1.50pm – Lunch / networking
1.50pm – 2.45pm – Demo 4 DIGITAL KNITTING
2.45pm – 3.40pm – Demo 5 DIGITAL CIRCUIT PRINTING FOR WEARABLE TECH
3.40pm – 4.20pm – Demo 6 ROBOTICS FOR MICRO-MANUFACTURING
4.20pm – 4.30pm – Summary / Q&A
This ASBCI Industry Technical Visit is FREE to ASBCI fashion industry members. Places are limited and restrictions per organisation may apply, so please confirm you would like to attend this visit asap by e-mailing the following details to: [email protected]
- NAME AND JOB TITLE – how you would like it to be presented on your name badge
- MOBILE CONTACT NUMBER – in case we need to reach you on the day
- LUNCH – please confirm any dietary requirements
Venue Address:
Manchester Fashion Institute| Manchester Metropolitan University | Righton Building| R.G 06| Cavendish Street | Manchester | M15 6BG