The agreement introduces free reciprocal membership, professional recognition and knowledge-sharing opportunities for members across the textile, colour science and leather industries.
The Society of Dyers and Colourists (SDC) and the Society of Leather Technologists and Chemists (SLTC) have announced a strategic partnership to strengthen ties between the textile and leather industries.
The agreement aims to expand professional networks and create new opportunities for members of both organisations. It will also encourage knowledge sharing, technical collaboration and professional development.
Approved by the SDC Board and SLTC Council, the partnership introduces reciprocal membership benefits. Members of either organisation can access the other Society without paying an additional membership fee. However, they must maintain fully paid-up membership with their home organisation.
Reciprocal Membership Offers New Benefits
The partnership will allow SDC and SLTC members to connect with a wider professional community. They will also gain access to shared events, technical knowledge and networking opportunities.
This arrangement aims to bring professionals from textile coloration, colour science and leather technology closer together.
New Opportunities for Professional Recognition
The agreement also creates additional pathways for professional recognition.
SLTC members can apply for Chartered Colourist (CCol) status if they meet specific requirements. Applicants must become voting members of SDC and hold a Level 6 qualification or equivalent. They must also have at least two years of experience in an appropriate colour-related occupation.
In addition, members of either organisation with at least ten years of professional experience can apply for Fellowship.
The available designations include:
- Fellowship of the Society of Leather Technologists and Chemists (FLSTC).
- Fellowship of the Society of Dyers and Colourists (FSDC).
All applications remain subject to the respective societies’ eligibility criteria and applicable fees. Members must also maintain current membership of both organisations to hold these designations.
Strengthening Links Between Textile and Leather Industries
The partnership brings together two professional organisations with complementary expertise.
The Society of Leather Technologists and Chemists is a non-profit international learned society with charitable status. It serves the leather sector and supports the future development of the leather industry.
The Society of Dyers and Colourists is an educational charity dedicated to advancing colour science and technology worldwide.
Both organisations share an interest in technical knowledge, chemistry and material development. Their collaboration will provide members with opportunities to exchange expertise and learn from professionals in related industries.
Joint initiatives and events are also planned as the partnership develops.
SDC and SLTC Presidents Welcome the Partnership
SLTC President Deborah Taylor highlighted the shared commitment of both organisations to technical excellence and knowledge exchange.
“Our societies share a commitment to knowledge exchange and technical excellence, and this partnership gives us a practical way to build on that shared purpose. I look forward to seeing our members exchange ideas, develop their skills and gain wider recognition for the expertise they bring to the leather and textile industries.”
SDC President Liz Straughan also highlighted the importance of extending the Society’s professional network beyond textiles.
“Broadening the Society’s reach beyond textiles is a priority for my presidential year, and this partnership with the SLTC is an important step. Leather and textiles share a great deal when it comes to colour, chemistry and technical challenge, and bringing our members together will create valuable opportunities to learn from one another.”
Joint Events and Membership Arrangements Planned
Following the agreement, both societies will work on the practical arrangements for managing reciprocal memberships.
They will also develop joint communications and plan events to encourage greater participation and interaction between members.
The partnership is expected to strengthen professional connections between the textile and leather sectors. It will also create opportunities for members to share technical expertise, develop their skills and gain wider professional recognition.