New innovation partnership to accelerate growth of Shipley textile manufacturers
Marketing and business experts at Leeds Beckett University (LBU) are partnering with Shipley-based Specialised Covers to secure the long-term growth and sustainability of the family-owned bespoke protective textile cover manufacturers.
The two-year project is a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP), part-funded by UKRI (UK Research and Innovation) through Innovate UK, and is led by Dr Catherine Ashworth, Senior Lecturer in Global and Strategic Marketing in Leeds Business School.
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Dr Ashworth explained: “Specialised Covers are an ambitious company with a strong reputation in the UK textiles industry, designing and manufacturing British-made protective covers for vehicles, caravans, defence, motorsport and garden equipment.
“The KTP aims to accelerate the company’s growth and resilience through introducing strategic marketing and AI-driven tools, expanding into new international markets, diversifying product offerings across market sectors, and creating a culture change across the organisation to encourage sharing of knowledge and expertise between colleagues.”
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Katie Fishwick, Managing Director of Specialised Covers, said: “Through the KTP with Leeds Beckett, we are looking forward to building on our strong brand and reputation to grow in both the UK and international markets. This long-term growth will be underpinned by embracing innovation. By integrating new, cutting-edge AI tools and advanced digital technologies, we aim to improve our efficiency, customer engagement and long-term resilience and competitiveness.”
An experienced graduate will be recruited to manage the project as a KTP Associate. The role, Strategic and Digital Marketing Lead, will be a full-time member of the Specialised Covers team, with full support of the LBU academics. For more information and to apply for the role, please visit leedsbeckett.ac.uk/jobs The closing date for applications is 22 May 2026.
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