The Manufacturing Outlook campaign is a Make UK/BDO partnership providing the most comprehensive barometer of the economic climate facing UK manufacturers, providing up-to-date and detailed intelligence on the state of manufacturing across the UK economy. It is important to us that we understand the challenges that you face in running your manufacturing businesses. It helps us use our skills, experience, and knowledge to make a tangible difference to your business.

The manufacturing sector is hugely important for the UK economy, trade and investment. UK manufacturing employment stands at over 2.6 million people and manufacturing accounts for 49% of all UK exports. Manufacturing also accounts for 16% of total UK business investment and 41% of all UK business research and development. 

The turn of the decade brought with it refreshed optimism for the UK manufacturing industry however, this waned quickly as the COVID-19 pandemic spread across the globe. The pandemic brought with it a lot of challenges, from overnight factory closures, disrupted supply chains to prioritising the health and safety of employees. Alongside this, the EU–UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) impacted the flow of goods, with many manufacturers experiencing delays at borders.

The sector continues to prove its resilience as it navigates the challenges it faces from ongoing supply chain disruptions, inflationary pressures, energy prices and a tight labour market, and our quarterly Manufacturing Outlook reports clearly demonstrates the impact of these. Over recent years we have seen a series of the worst and best figures ever reported by our Manufacturing Outlook survey.

• Digital Transformation

Digital transformation is revolutionising the manufacturing landscape. The adoption of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and the Internet of Things (IoT) is enhancing productivity and efficiency. Smart factories, where machines and systems are interconnected, allow for real-time monitoring and optimisation of production processes. Digital twins—virtual replicas of physical assets—enable manufacturers to simulate and analyse performance, leading to better decision-making and reduced downtime.

• Sustainability

Sustainability is becoming a central focus for UK manufacturers. There is a growing emphasis on reducing carbon footprints, minimising waste, and using renewable energy sources. Companies are adopting circular economy principles, where products are designed for reuse, repair, and recycling. This shift towards sustainable practices is driven by regulatory requirements, consumer demand for environmentally friendly products, and the need to address climate change.

• Reshoring

Reshoring, or bringing manufacturing operations back to the UK, is a notable trend. Factors such as the need for greater supply chain resilience, rising labour costs in other countries, and the desire to reduce transportation emissions are driving this movement. Reshoring helps to mitigate risks associated with global supply chains and supports local economies by creating jobs and boosting domestic production.

• Skills Development

As the manufacturing sector evolves, there is an increasing demand for a skilled workforce. Manufacturers are investing in training and development programmes to equip their employees with the necessary skills for modern manufacturing. This includes apprenticeships, upskilling initiatives, and partnerships with educational institutions. The focus is on developing expertise in areas such as digital technologies, advanced manufacturing techniques, and sustainable practices.

• Collaboration

Collaboration is becoming increasingly important in the manufacturing sector. Companies are working together, as well as with research institutions and government bodies, to drive innovation and address common challenges. Collaborative efforts help to accelerate technological advancements, improve competitiveness, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. Industry clusters and innovation hubs are emerging as key platforms for collaboration, enabling knowledge sharing and joint problem-solving.

• Customisation and Personalisation

There is a growing trend towards customisation and personalisation in manufacturing. Advances in technology, such as 3D printing and flexible manufacturing systems, allow manufacturers to produce customised products at scale. This trend is driven by consumer demand for unique and personalised products, as well as the need for manufacturers to differentiate themselves in a competitive market. Customisation and personalisation also enable manufacturers to respond more quickly to changing market trends and customer preferences.

• Supply Chain Optimisation

Optimising supply chains is a critical focus for UK manufacturers. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted vulnerabilities in global supply chains, prompting companies to reassess and strengthen their supply chain strategies. Manufacturers are adopting technologies such as blockchain for greater transparency and traceability, and using data analytics to improve demand forecasting and inventory management. Supply chain optimisation helps to enhance resilience, reduce costs, and improve overall efficiency.

Download our Make UK/BDO Q4 Manufacturing Outlook Report for detailed manufacturing sector insights.