Schoolwear Show review
Reflecting on the changing uniform landscape
The Schoolwear Show aims to be the epicentre of all things, well, schoolwear; and with this year’s exhibition being the first after new government legislation takes effect, it was anticipated to be a hot topic. Acting editor Benjamin Austin has compiled a review of the show to get a sense of the industry’s thoughts.
T
he Schoolwear Show brought retailers and suppliers together at Cranmore Business Park on October 11-12, providing an opportunity for the industry to reconnect following the busy back-to-school period and discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the market.
This year’s event took place against the backdrop of new school uniform legislation, which came into force in England in September. The changes limit the number of compulsory branded uniform items schools can require pupils to have, putting affordability and value for money firmly in the spotlight.
While exhibitors reported differing experiences of visitor numbers, feedback pointed to continued demand for new products, opportunities to develop customer relationships and interest in how schoolwear might evolve in response to changing requirements. For some exhibitors, the show proved a valuable opportunity to meet existing customers and establish new business, while conversations around pricing, product development and flexibility reflected the pressures facing suppliers and retailers alike.
Class is in session
The new legislation formed part of the wider conversation around the future of school uniform. Under the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Act 2026, schools in England are restricted to requiring three branded items of uniform, with secondary and middle schools permitted to require a fourth if one of the items is a tie. The changes cover compulsory uniform and PE kit, with the aim of helping families manage the cost of sending children to school. The legislation does not mean branded schoolwear will disappear, but it places greater emphasis on how schools and suppliers balance identity, quality and affordability. It also creates an
opportunity for businesses to consider how their ranges can meet schools’ needs while offering greater flexibility. Daniel Shaw, B2B sales manager at SDL Group (Surridge), reported a positive event, with customers increasingly open-minded about how school uniform could evolve following the legislative changes.
He said: “We’re seeing more and more schools looking at and trialling PE kit as part of their day-to-day uniform, with comfort, practicality and versatility becoming increasingly important. “With that, our Active Presentation Jacket (WL012) attracted a lot of interest as a modern, hybrid alternative to the traditional school blazer. Made from 78% polyester and 22% spandex, it’s built for comfort and ease of movement, with a fitted, streamlined silhouette and brushed inner for added warmth, making it ideal across both daywear and PE. “Our Ladies Leggings also continue to be the number one choice in the market, receiving another strong response at the show. “Overall, it was well worth attending, and we picked up several new customers as a direct result from both the UK and Ireland.” The legislation was also a point of discussion for The Parently Group.
Jamie Morley, business development director, said: “It was fantastic to welcome so many loyal customers to this year’s Schoolwear Show, alongside a strong level of interest from prospective new accounts.
“It is encouraging to meet people looking to enter the industry and to see their enthusiasm for the opportunities within the schoolwear sector.”
“Despite uncertainty around changes such as the new school uniform legislation, discussions about the past year were very positive.
Tie & Scarf Company stand | 46 | November 2026
Discussions being held on the Charles Kirk stand
www.printwearandpromotion.co.uk
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