Levelling up regional economies to rebuild in the face of a recession, and our impending new relationship with the EU, all whilst recovering from Covid-19, will be a huge challenge. The UK manufacturing sector has an important role to play in reviving and rebalancing our economy in the months and years ahead. Our new report in partnership with RSM finds that 42% of manufacturers are dissatisfied with the Government’s current levelling up agenda, and puts forward a case to support the growth of the UK manufacturing sector as a sure-fire way to kick-start the revival of our regional economies.
The COVID crisis showcased manufacturers as natural problem solvers. Nine out of ten manufacturers stayed open throughout the crisis, designing effective social distancing plans well before the masses and secured the production of vital food, drink, power and other necessities. This resilience, adaptability and innovation showcased the power of manufacturing which can be harnessed to help with economic regional turnaround. But it is not a one size fits all solution. Capturing the manufacturing power of the individual regions requires a bespoke approach through the development of regional industrial strategies.
Levelling up must look beyond the traditional focus of physical infrastructure projects clustered around major cities alone. Manufacturers want to see real, tangible change in their regions.
Improved local road and rail transport connections
A greater focus on regional projects over nationals ones
Prioritising digital connectivity everywhere
Industry is calling on Government to back manufacturing and to collectively revive and rebalancing our regional economies.
Key to delivering sustained economic growth is harnessing our Industrial Strategy and implementing it effectively at a local level through the development of strong local industrial strategies with industry, Government and local stakeholders working together. This in tandem with much needed boost to digital connectivity will allow companies from the whole of the UK to compete on the global stage.
Stephen Phipson CBE
Chief Executive, Make UK
There has never been a more important time to re-evaluate and refocus the UK’s economic agenda to help power the recovery on a regional and national basis and capture new opportunities. Manufacturing is central to this. By its nature it constantly adapts, it creates strong local employment and drives wider development and investment in communities.
Mike Thornton
Partner and Head of Manufacturing, RSM
