Manufacturing key topics
Addressing key topics within the manufacturing sector.
Future
The common misconception is that the UK manufacturing sector is in terminal decline, with falling employment and the transfer of industries to the Far East. The scale of the challenges should not be underestimated, however many new industries are thriving in the UK. The challenges can be overcome with proper investment in skills, plant, infrastructure and innovation. The IET believes that manufacturing has a future in the UK and that society’s support of manufacturing industry is crucial to the economic wellbeing of the country (directly employing 3.5 million people, generating ~60% of UK exports and contributing ~ 15% of GDP*). This should be reflected in both the continued application of the Government’s manufacturing strategy and in the promotion of the positive aspects of manufacturing to the population as a whole.
Innovation and investment
Exploiting the opportunities presented by the global market depends upon constant innovation in and development of products, manufacturing methods and resources focussed on understanding and satisfying customer needs. Governments and organisations should therefore seek to invest in innovation, experimentation and knowledge sharing between companies, universities and Government departments.
Infrastructure
Good communication links are essential if manufacturers are to be successful in marketing and supplying their products to customers at home and abroad and establishing effective extended enterprises. This can only be achieved through efficient and reliable telecommunications and road, rail and air infrastructures, which are linked seamlessly to the international communication and transport networks.
Skills
The IET supports the National Skills Academy for Manufacturing and the Government’s efforts to increase young people’s interest in engineering and manufacturing. The IET believes that management skills are a key component of a successful, efficient manufacturing organisation and should be at the forefront of the Government’s manufacturing skills agenda.
Knowledge
It is important to capitalise on the expertise held within UK manufacturing and to exploit best practice. Many small, innovative companies are held back by a lack of manufacturing knowledge. The IET is committed to facilitating access to this knowledge and to establish an active network to promote knowledge sharing amongst its manufacturers.
