Steve Hopper’s Post

🇬🇧 UK Manufacturing Round-Up – Friday, 8th November 🇬🇧 🔹 Positive Growth in UK Manufacturing Output Despite economic challenges, UK manufacturing output has shown steady growth this quarter. Key sectors, including automotive, aerospace, and electronics, have all reported increased production rates, contributing to overall resilience in the industry. 🔹 New Investments in Green Manufacturing The UK government has announced additional funding for green manufacturing initiatives. This funding aims to support companies in adopting sustainable practices, from renewable energy use in factories to waste reduction and recycling programs, aligning with net-zero goals. 🔹 Strengthening Workforce Skills To address ongoing skills shortages, manufacturers are expanding apprenticeship programs and technical training. New initiatives focus on equipping workers with digital skills and expertise in areas like advanced robotics and AI, helping to future-proof the workforce. 🔹 Global Demand for British-Made Goods With a rise in demand for high-quality British-made products, exports are increasing in markets across Europe, Asia, and North America. Sectors such as pharmaceuticals and precision engineering are leading the charge, reinforcing the global reputation of British manufacturing. 🔹 Digital Transformation in Production Lines More UK manufacturers are adopting digital technologies to boost efficiency and quality. From IoT-enabled production lines to AI-driven quality control, digital transformation is reducing costs and enhancing productivity across the sector. #UKManufacturing #BritishIndustry #Sustainability #SkillsDevelopment #Innovation #DigitalTransformation #ExportStrength #NetZero #InvestInBritain 🇬🇧

UPDATE – Campaign for Engineering & Manufacturing to be given an experienced, passionate, and powerful voice in Government. 💥 WE’RE LIVE 💥 The petition has been approved!! ✅ Here is the link: https://lnkd.in/exu55ePf Just one slight change in the initial opening was required as “trusted voice” did not meet the standards. So – by clicking the link,  you will be signing to ask for the following: - ✅ Give our Engineering & Manufacturing industries a representative in Government. ✅ The UK's Engineering & Manufacturing industries urge the recruitment of a highly experienced, respected, and trusted professional to represent them to Government to fortify our sector, catalyse GDP growth, stimulate demand across industries, and strategically foster economic prosperity for all. ✅ Dedicated Engineering & Manufacturing industry representation within Government, both OEM & SME focussed, would facilitate better communication between Government and Industry and ensure more effective, appropriate, and relevant policies on: · Innovation, Technology and R&D · Education and Skills · International Trade and Export · Stimulating demand, Economic Growth and Job Creation · Sustainability, Green Manufacturing and Regulatory Support · Crisis Management and SME Supply Chain Resilience And just to say WHY this is so important, as per the latest report from the Manufacturing Technologies Association (MTA) and Oxford Economics, and shared by the fabulous Jonny Williamson, the following facts cannot be denied: - THE TRUE IMPACT OF UK MANUFACTURING ✅ Accounts for £518 billion of UK GDP ✅ Support 7.3million jobs ✅ Accounts for 35% of all UK goods and services exports ✅ Drives 47% of total UK business R&D investment ✅ Median wage 11% above national average This represents nearly a total GDP of almost 23% - far bigger than the direct contribution of 8% usually quoted by economists. Please, please, please – click the link, it requires only one further confirmation e-mail click to sign the petition. It will take LESS THAN A MINUTE but could make ALL the difference to what we can achieve moving forward. And remember - shout loud and proud by using the following hashtags to keep spreading the word about why we deserve effective, and strategic representation within Government. #shoutaboutukmfg – positive news #supportukmfg – promoting engineering and manufacturing #ukmanufacturing – promoting our industry   #ministerformanufacturing – for specific posts relating to this campaign 

This is worth reading and supporting. Time the government looked at the case for a minister for manufacturing, or minister for industry, whose remit is to represent industrial sectors in a fast-changing world, covering #climatechange #AI #skills #recruitment #exports #growth and #sovereigncapability

🇬🇧 UK Manufacturing Weekly Round-Up: Highs, Lows, and What’s Next (November 11–15, 2024) 🇬🇧 This week, UK manufacturing has seen its share of successes and challenges. Here’s a concise summary of the sector’s highs, lows, and what to expect next week: 📈 Highs of the Week: 1. Export Success Stories: Exports of UK-manufactured goods rose by 15% in Q3, with strong demand for luxury and electric vehicle (EV) models in Europe, the US, and China. 2. Green Energy Boost: A £2 billion government fund was announced to accelerate the UK’s net-zero journey, focusing on renewable energy technologies, sustainable manufacturing, and energy-efficient production. 3. Tech Transformation: Manufacturers are adopting Industry 4.0 technologies such as AI-driven analytics and smart machinery, driving efficiency and reducing downtime across production lines. 📉 Lows of the Week: 1. Energy Cost Pressures: Rising energy costs remain a significant burden on manufacturers, with winter price hikes expected to squeeze margins further. 2. Supply Chain Disruptions: Delays in raw materials, particularly in semiconductors, continue to disrupt production schedules, causing challenges for advanced manufacturing and traditional sectors alike. 3. Labour Shortages: Skilled labour remains in short supply, particularly in high-growth areas like EV technology and green manufacturing. Workforce upskilling is critical but will take time to bridge the gap. 🔮 What’s Next for UK Manufacturing? 1. Winter Energy Relief Measures: The industry awaits potential government interventions to ease energy costs. Any subsidies or support could provide a lifeline for businesses. 2. Policy Developments: The Labour Party is working with local leaders and business groups to shape a new industrial strategy focused on boosting manufacturing growth and innovation. 3. Export Challenges: Global trade dynamics remain uncertain, but opportunities in Asian and European markets for high-tech, sustainable products could drive growth. Despite current headwinds, the UK manufacturing sector remains resilient and forward-looking. From digital transformation to sustainability, the industry is building a future-ready foundation for success. What trends or challenges are you observing in manufacturing this week? Let’s connect and discuss! #UKManufacturing #NetZero #Sustainability #DigitalTransformation #Innovation #Growth #ExportStrength #EconomicUpdate

🇬🇧 UK Manufacturing Weekly Round-Up: Highs, Lows, and What’s Next (November 11–15, 2024) 🇬🇧 This week, UK manufacturing has seen its share of successes and challenges. Here’s a concise summary of the sector’s highs, lows, and what to expect next week: 📈 Highs of the Week: 1. Export Success Stories: Exports of UK-manufactured goods rose by 15% in Q3, with strong demand for luxury and electric vehicle (EV) models in Europe, the US, and China. 2. Green Energy Boost: A £2 billion government fund was announced to accelerate the UK’s net-zero journey, focusing on renewable energy technologies, sustainable manufacturing, and energy-efficient production. 3. Tech Transformation: Manufacturers are adopting Industry 4.0 technologies such as AI-driven analytics and smart machinery, driving efficiency and reducing downtime across production lines. 📉 Lows of the Week: 1. Energy Cost Pressures: Rising energy costs remain a significant burden on manufacturers, with winter price hikes expected to squeeze margins further. 2. Supply Chain Disruptions: Delays in raw materials, particularly in semiconductors, continue to disrupt production schedules, causing challenges for advanced manufacturing and traditional sectors alike. 3. Labour Shortages: Skilled labour remains in short supply, particularly in high-growth areas like EV technology and green manufacturing. Workforce upskilling is critical but will take time to bridge the gap. 🔮 What’s Next for UK Manufacturing? 1. Winter Energy Relief Measures: The industry awaits potential government interventions to ease energy costs. Any subsidies or support could provide a lifeline for businesses. 2. Policy Developments: The Labour Party is working with local leaders and business groups to shape a new industrial strategy focused on boosting manufacturing growth and innovation. 3. Export Challenges: Global trade dynamics remain uncertain, but opportunities in Asian and European markets for high-tech, sustainable products could drive growth. Despite current headwinds, the UK manufacturing sector remains resilient and forward-looking. From digital transformation to sustainability, the industry is building a future-ready foundation for success. What trends or challenges are you observing in manufacturing this week? Let’s connect and discuss! #UKManufacturing #NetZero #Sustainability #DigitalTransformation #Innovation #Growth #ExportStrength #EconomicUpdate

🎉 Great news! The petition has been approved! ✅ Here's the link: https://lnkd.in/exu55ePf So, by clicking the link, you'll be signing to ask for: ✅ Give our Engineering & Manufacturing industries a representative in Government. ✅ The UK's Engineering & Manufacturing industries urge the recruitment of a highly experienced, respected, and trusted professional to represent them to Government to fortify our sector, catalyse GDP growth, stimulate demand across industries, and strategically foster economic prosperity for all. ✅ Dedicated Engineering & Manufacturing industry representation within Government, both OEM & SME focused, would facilitate better communication between Government and Industry and ensure more effective, appropriate, and relevant policies on: Innovation, Technology, and R&D Education and Skills International Trade and Export Stimulating demand, Economic Growth, and Job Creation Sustainability, Green Manufacturing, and Regulatory Support Crisis Management and SME Supply Chain Resilience Let's make a difference together! 🚀 #Engineering #Manufacturing #GovernmentRepresentation

UPDATE – Campaign for Engineering & Manufacturing to be given an experienced, passionate, and powerful voice in Government. Please sign the petition folks!!!!! #supportukmfg #ukmfg #manufacturing #engineering #ministerformanufacturing #ukmanufacturing

Every day, we rely on technology—from coffee machines to smartphones—without recognising the innovation that powers them. 💡 Behind the scenes, UK manufacturing is a driving force turning ideas into reality. Historically, the UK has led the world with breakthroughs like the first programmable computer, through to the iconic Mini Cooper and renewable energy technologies, setting global standards. However, today’s global competition and economic shifts are putting this legacy at risk. UK manufacturing needs revitalisation to continue as a powerhouse of design, science, and technology. UK manufacturing thrives on ingenuity and progress, calling on the next generation to build, innovate, and shape the future. It’s not just about making things; it’s about making things better. A robust manufacturing sector benefits everyone, from those businesses providing accounting services, through to logistics and warehousing to legal services and finance. The industries are entwined across the economy. So, we need to rally behind Andrea Wilson's campaign for a dedicated champion in government—a leader who can advocate for the nearly 3 million workers and the £220 billion direct contribution to our economy. And as a result, the nation as a whole!!! This champion must unite strategy, education, skills, investment, and legislation to drive meaningful change. How can you help? If you agree with this, please email your trade association, membership or networking group, and YOUR LOCAL MP, and request the appointment of a dedicated, experienced, and passionate professional to be our advocate within the halls of power. It’s time to ensure UK Manufacturing remains at the forefront of global innovation. #ukmanufacturing #SupportUkMfg Christopher Greenough Juergen Maier CBE FRS FREng John Caudwell James Watt Jonathan Reynolds MP Peter Kyle

Exploring Investment Opportunities in the UK’s Advanced Manufacturing Sector As the global landscape evolves, so do the opportunities for investment. Today, I want to shed light on the UK’s Advanced Manufacturing Plan, a strategic initiative that holds immense promise for investors and manufacturers alike. 1. Why Invest in the UK’s Advanced Manufacturing? Thriving Sector: The UK’s manufacturing sector is a powerhouse, contributing £205 billion to the economy in 2022. It’s the 8th largest globally, surpassing France. Productivity Growth: Between 2010 and 2021, the sector achieved a remarkable 25% productivity growth, outpacing other G7 nations. R&D Focus: Manufacturing accounts for 41% of all business expenditure on UK R&D. In 2021, it reached £19.4 billion. Export Hub: The UK exported £361 billion of manufactured goods in 2022, constituting 43% of total exports. Regional Spread: Manufacturing jobs are distributed across the UK, with 84% outside London and the southeast. 2. Investment Avenues: Zero Emission Vehicles: The UK’s commitment to zero-emission vehicles is unwavering. With £2 billion available until 2030, investors can tap into this green revolution. Connected and Automated Mobility (CAM): A £66 billion market by 2040, CAM offers opportunities in self-driving transportation and related services. Supply Chain Resilience: Collaborate internationally to build resilient supply chains, ensuring stability and security. 3. Why This Matters: Economic Growth: Investing in advanced manufacturing fuels economic prosperity. Innovation Ecosystem: The UK boasts world-class universities and innovation institutions. Skilled Workforce: Tap into a highly skilled talent pool. 🔗 Let’s Shape the Future Together: Whether you’re an investor, entrepreneur, or industry enthusiast, the UK’s Advanced Manufacturing Plan beckons. Let’s create a future where innovation meets opportunity! 🌎💡 #AdvancedManufacturing #InvestmentOpportunities #UKManufacturing #Innovation #EconomicGrowth

While there was not a lot announced about food & beverage in last night’s Federal #Budget, I liked the focus on #AustralianManufacturing. If you’re after an overview of what was in it for our industry, including the sectors and companies to benefit from the #FutureMadeinAustralia plan, see this blog. Link in original post. #IntelligentIdentification #Traceability #IndustrialAutomation #Manufacturing #Budget2024