A YORKSHIRE business is set to benefit from a new university partnership focused on innovation-led growth.
Leeds Beckett University is working with Shipley-based Specialised Covers through a two-year Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) to improve sustainability and expand the company’s reach.
The KTP, part-funded by UK Research and Innovation, aims to support long-term growth through advanced marketing strategies and AI-driven digital tools.
Dr Catherine Ashworth, senior lecturer in global and strategic marketing at Leeds Beckett, said: “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 partnership will support entry into international markets and broader sector diversification, while also encouraging organisational knowledge-sharing.
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.”
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A full-time graduate KTP associate will be recruited to lead the project as a Strategic and Digital Marketing Lead, based at Specialised Covers but fully supported by academic staff at Leeds Beckett.
The closing date for applications is May 22, 2026.
