A new report claims that industry is increasing its importance to the North West economy, with the total number of jobs growing by 4.5% since 2010.
Brexit, Industry 4.0 and economic uncertainty are all challenges that the manufacturing industry in the UK faces. Despite these challenges, a new survey has revealed that the North West is still a manufacturing powerhouse, with industry being of vital importance in this area.
The report from EEF claims that 350,000 people work in manufacturing, and there have been 15,000 jobs created since 2010, recording healthy output and order balances and a healthy demand from both home and foreign markets as a result.
The region also accounts for 15.4% of the total UK manufacturing output, which is the second highest in the UK.
Richard Halstead, Director of Member Engagement for EEF in the North, said: “The report shows that industry continues to have an increasingly vital role to play in the North West.
The last year has seen a strong performance with lofty heights being reached in the second half of last year and it is no surprise to see some easing back in the first half of 2018.”
Graham Ellis, director and head of manufacturing at BDO in the North West, said: “Local manufacturers have delivered another strong performance. Manufacturing is a real powerhouse sector for our regional economy, creating jobs and opportunities in both domestic and international markets.
However, it is crucial the government does not lose focus on the importance of UK manufacturing as we endure the twists and turns of EU negotiations. A long term, practical Industrial Strategy that delivers a positive trading environment for businesses post-Brexit will be important to the future success of our manufacturing heartland.”
Brexit offers opportunities as well as threats, and companies need to consider their routes in order to differentiate themselves from competition and demonstrate why they are better than the rest.
If you want to find out what Industrial and Manufacturing jobs are available, please contact a friendly member of the team on 01925 839 823, for a confidential chat about your future.
