#United Kingdom #Manchester #PortalM #Makalot #Manchester Met

Collaboration Between Manchester Metropolitan University and Portal:M

In a landmark partnership, the Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) has joined forces with Portal:M, an innovative digital fashion start-up backed by global apparel leader Makalot. Announced on April 1, 2026, this collaboration aims to provide master's students with practical insights into the fashion industry while developing a professional social media portfolio for Portal:M. This initiative seeks to bridge the gap between high-level academic theory and the fast-paced reality of the global fashion market, fostering a dynamic environment where students act as marketing consultants for a brand at the forefront of digital transformation.

Closing the Gap Between Academia and Industry

This strategic initiative marries the innovative perspectives of fashion Master's students specializing in International Fashion Marketing with the marketing objectives of Portal:M. This dynamic collaboration serves as a fundamental bridge between academic theory and professional practice, taking students out of the traditional classroom setting and placing them directly into a global business context. By engaging in real-world projects, these students will have the unique opportunity to advise Portal:M’s executive committee on expansion strategies while the brand solidifies its presence in the European market.

As part of this immersive project, students are working with Portal:M to design, produce, and manage impactful social media content across essential digital platforms. Participants gain hands-on experience in a professional creative environment, paying particular attention to campaign strategy, brand storytelling, and data analysis. The project requires students to support their recommendations through thorough social media content management and performance reporting. This ensures the development of the technical competence, professional confidence, and business sustainability necessary to meet the complex expectations of clients in a digital economy.

This collaboration reflects MMU’s continuous commitment to enhancing student experience through significant industry engagement, preparing graduates for the global job market.

“Thanks to the innovation in our curriculum and our industry partnerships, we continue to drive digitization in fashion, ensuring our graduates possess the skills and digital thinking necessary for a more efficient and sustainable fashion industry in the future,” says Dr. Anita Mitchell, Digital Fashion Strategy Director at the Manchester Fashion Institute, Manchester Metropolitan University.

Empowering the Next Generation

Dr. Farag Edghiem from Manchester Metropolitan University highlighted that this alliance with Portal:M presents an invaluable opportunity for Master’s students to apply their knowledge in a real work context. Industry collaboration is critical for enhancing employability, and this project enables students to graduate with tangible digital skills gained through real-world projects.

“The partnership with Manchester Metropolitan University connects us with ambitious postgraduate talents. This bridge provides professional mentoring and real-world data,” stated Dianne Chen, Marketing Director at Portal:M. “It empowers students to deliver innovative recommendations that challenge conventional thinking. This synergy ensures that Portal:M remains a leader in digital fashion while equipping students to create high-level portfolios.”

About Portal:M

Portal:M is a visionary digital fashion integrator that combines bespoke 3D digitization with StyTrix, our professional AI suite. We provide comprehensive solutions designed to enhance every role, scaling creativity and optimizing the entire value chain. Follow us on LinkedIn at PortalM LinkedIn.

For more details or inquiries, reach out to Dianne Chen at [email protected].