The Sewing Factory Ltd, Southend
The Sewing Factory Ltd is a growing UK manufacturing business built on craftsmanship, quality, and a commitment to local production. As demand for their textile products increased, they faced significant recruitment challenges due to a shortage of skilled workers in the industry. Seeking support, they were referred to Backing Essex Business, who helped them refine their recruitment strategy and reconnect with the local workforce.
In an age where fast fashion dominates and traditional craftsmanship is often overlooked, The Sewing Factory Ltd, Southend stands out as a committed, skill-driven manufacturing business keeping authentic production alive. Wayne and Candy Miller’s journey began with a simple idea: to create high-quality dancewear products while building a local, skilled workforce that could support long-term manufacturing growth in the region.
How It All Began
The Sewing Factory was founded with a passion for garment construction and a belief that the UK still had room for strong, homegrown manufacturing. Wayne and Candy’s long history in the industry has given them the skills, business acumen and contacts to grow from a small workshop into a bustling production space as demand for ethically made, locally produced goods increased. Starting with dancewear for adults and children, and still known predominantly for this, The Sewing Factory has adapted and diversified over recent years to be able to offer the creation of a wide variety of products, truly living up to the business name.
The founders built their reputation on attention to detail, quality craftsmanship, and the ability to respond quickly to customer needs.
“We pride ourselves on being ‘Made in Britain’. We are a member of the scheme and source all of our materials from UK companies.””
Facing Challenges
2025 had already provided significant challenges for the business. Rising staffing costs, the need to upgrade machinery and increased competition from overseas manufacturers, made growth feel like a long road ahead.
“We have always tried to find a careful balance with our pricing, but that has become increasingly difficult this year. We want to be affordable for parents, but we are also facing rising operational costs and the constant competition from overseas manufacturers. We seek growth but to do that means employment, and employment means even more cost.”
Recently when reaching a new milestone of growth, another challenge familiar across the manufacturing sector starting to arise, finding skilled labour. Sewing, machining, textile assembly and pattern work are all specialist skills that have become less common as schools shift focus toward digital and academic pathways. The Sewing Factory knew the talent was out there but reaching it was another matter.
The issue we have with recruitment is nobody in school is told about manufacturing businesses. We could take anyone with an interest in sewing and train them to do something beneficial when they finish school, even those that leave without any academic qualifications. It’s something that could become a career, rather than them feeling beaten down by their academic results. Our roles are creative, fulfilling and great for those who thrive on routine, and all skills needed can be taught to a willing person.
Candy Miller, Owner, The Sewing Factory Ltd
As orders increased for the business, Wayne and Candy needed more machinists, cutters, production staff and machinery to fulfil their growing order book. Traditional recruitment methods brought limited success. Many candidates simply weren’t aware that manufacturing roles were still available locally or they underestimated the stability and career progression the industry could offer.
The Sewing Factory needed help connecting with the right candidates, particularly those who had skills but lacked confidence, or those looking for a new start in a hands-on industry.
Partnering With Backing Essex Business
Needing support, The Sewing Factory reached out for help and were referred to Backing Essex Business and introduced to Business Advisor Dawn Andrikopoulos. Through a listening ear and her experience Dawn was able to offer targeted recruitment guidance, general business advice and access to wider employment networks.
Backing Essex Business helped them:
Identify where their ideal candidates were located
Streamline their operations
Connect with local employment organisations
Access support programmes designed to help businesses grow sustainably
Look at funding opportunities for new machinery and equipment
Since working with Backing Essex Business, The Sewing Factory has successfully recruited 2.5 new members of staff, bringing their total workforce to 22 people. This growth has strengthened their production capacity, helping them to fulfil their current increased orders.
Looking ahead, Wayne and Candy are committed to doing more than simply filling vacancies. They are passionate about addressing the root of the skills shortage by working proactively with schools and colleges across the region. Their aim is to reintroduce young people to the possibilities of manufacturing, an industry rich in creativity and career potential. Whether through school talks, or Work Experience offerings The Sewing Factory is determined to highlight the value of practical skills and ensure the next generation sees manufacturing as a viable, rewarding pathway.
“It is a real pleasure to work with such a dedicated family business willing to teach skills and nurture a new generation of team members.
I hope that the collaboration with local education establishments pays dividends and young people, as well as those looking to re-join the workforce, have the chance to enhance their work lives and invest their efforts in such a well-deserving company.”
The story of The Sewing Factory is one of resilience, community collaboration, and dedication to keeping British manufacturing alive and thriving.