Resilience & Reinvention: Howden’s state of UK manufacturing report
A sector at a turning point
UK manufacturing is under increasing pressure. Rising costs, supply chain disruption, and accelerating digital and sustainability demands are forcing businesses to rethink how they operate.
But this is not just a story of challenge. It’s a story of adaptation, innovation and opportunity.
Built on insights from 250 leaders across metals, plastics, food & beverage and chemicals, this report uncovers how manufacturers are staying competitive in an increasingly complex environment.
Why download this report?
Because real insight beats guesswork.
This research gives you a clear, data-led view of what’s happening across the sector – so you can benchmark your business, identify risks early, and prioritise what matters most.
What you’ll learn
The pressures shaping today’s industry
- Output has declined, highlighting ongoing fragility across the sector
- Energy costs, inflation and supply chain disruption continue to squeeze margins
Where growth is really happening
- Manufacturers are focusing on market expansion, stronger customer relationships and new product development
- Leaders are balancing growth with operational resilience
Technology: ambition vs reality
- 98 per cent plan to invest in technology, AI or automation
- But many face barriers – from supply chain challenges to implementation uncertainty
The evolving risk landscape
- 51 per cent experienced a cyber incident in the past 12 months
- But only 47 per cent feel very prepared for cyber threats
- Business interruption is now a leading concern across the sector
A growing workforce challenge
- More than 8 in 10 manufacturers report skills shortages impacting growth and productivity
What this means for your business…
Whether you're mitigating rising costs, rethinking supply chains, scaling automation, or competing for talent, this research shows you're not alone, and it helps you prioritise what truly matters.
The report gives you:
- Benchmark data against peers
- Early warning signs on emerging risks
- Clear insight into where leaders are investing time and budget
- Actionable guidance you can bring straight to your board or leadership team
How Howden supports the manufacturing sector
Your internal plans emphasise positioning Howden as a thought leader and key partner to manufacturing, this section brings that to life.
At Howden, we already support thousands of UK manufacturing businesses with insurance and risk solutions designed specifically for the sector.
How Howden supports manufacturers
We work with thousands of UK manufacturers to turn risk into resilience.
Our specialists support you with:
- Operational protection – from supply chain disruption to business interruption and machinery risks
- Cyber resilience – including maturity reviews, incident planning and specialist partners
- Workforce solutions – helping attract and retain critical talent
- Sector expertise – deep insight across metals, plastics, food & beverage and chemicals
Your risks are evolving. Your protection should too.