Contributors
National Manufacturing Day (24 September), spearheaded by MakeUK, is an annual, UK-wide celebration of today's manufacturing industry. Manufacturers across the country open their doors to the public, schools and colleges, and local job seekers; showcasing the modern, technology-driven sector, highlighting the crucial role manufacturing plays in our economy and wider society, and inspiring the next generation of talent.
Working closely with our manufacturing clients day-in day-out, Womble Bond Dickinson's specialist sector team (and Make UK Defence members) share their thoughts on why the industry's so important in the UK - from developing a more sustainable future to safeguarding the nation's sovereignity – and how the next generation of talent plays a vital role in its growth:
Peter Snaith, partner and head of our manufacturing sector group, said:
"Despite the challenges faced by manufacturers in recent years, the sector remains one of the UK's greatest strengths. From advanced materials and chemicals to pharmaceuticals and consumer products, manufacturers continue to demonstrate remarkable resilience, ingenuity and ambition. Manufacturing is fundamental to the UK's economic prosperity, but it also plays a vital role in safeguarding the nation's sovereignty through secure, resilient and increasingly domestic supply chains. Recent global events have highlighted the importance of reducing dependency on overseas supply, particularly in strategically important sectors. The opportunities ahead are significant, and manufacturers that embrace innovation, invest in skills and technology, and help build a more sustainable and resilient UK industrial base will be well placed to thrive."
Sarah Daun, commercial partner and manufacturing sector specialist, added:
"National Manufacturing Day is a timely reminder of the critical role manufacturers play in driving economic growth, innovation and the UK's transition to a more sustainable future. Across the sector we continue to see ambitious businesses investing in new technologies, creating highly skilled jobs and developing solutions to some of society's biggest challenges. It is also a sector rich with opportunity, offering a diverse range of rewarding careers and providing a platform for talented people to develop skills that will shape the industries of the future."
Stephen Anderson, partner with an aerospace and defence sector focus, shared:
"Working closely with businesses across the defence, aerospace and security sectors, we see first-hand the innovation, expertise and ambition that exists throughout the UK's manufacturing base. These companies are developing cutting-edge technologies, creating highly skilled jobs and making a significant contribution to both national prosperity and security. National Manufacturing Day is a chance to celebrate those achievements and shine a spotlight on the people behind them."
Our Manufacturing sector team works with manufacturers of all sizes to help them grow at home and internationally. From tackling commercial or regulatory challenges to improving productivity and digitalisation, find out how we can help here.
