SDC UK to Host 2026 Coloration and Finishing Conference on AI, Compliance and Textile Innovation

Free-to-attend event in Bradford on 15 October will bring together industry experts to discuss artificial intelligence, sustainability, regulation and manufacturing technologies.

The Society of Dyers and Colourists (SDC) has confirmed details of its UK Coloration and Finishing Conference 2026, which will be held on 15 October at the Cedar Court Hotel in Bradford.

Building on previous editions, the conference will bring together professionals from textile manufacturers, dyehouses, brands, solution providers and educational providers to examine developments influencing the textile coloration and finishing sector.

According to SDC, the textile industry is facing increasing demands related to evolving legislation, sustainability requirements, supply chain transparency and rapid technological advancements. The 2026 conference has been structured to provide delegates with practical technical knowledge that can be applied within manufacturing environments.

The conference programme will feature presentations on 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). Additional speakers are expected to be announced in 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."

Attendance at the conference will remain free of charge, supported through funding from the Society of Dyers and Colourists. The organisation stated that removing financial barriers is intended to make technical knowledge accessible across the coloration community and support skills development throughout the sector.

The event will also offer exhibition and sponsorship opportunities for organisations seeking to engage with technical professionals and decision-makers. Exhibitors will be able to present developments in machinery, chemicals, dyes, software, testing, sustainability solutions and manufacturing services.

SDC will continue its student bursary initiative, allowing educational providers to nominate two students for fully funded places at the conference.

Further information, including delegate registration, exhibition opportunities and sponsorship packages, is available through SDC UK – 4th Conference Coloration and Finishing 2026.