Author: James Devonshire

A reliance on electronics, food and drink and transport left the UK’s second largest manufacturing region heavily exposed to lockdown disruption, but rising levels of business investment reflect a confident outlook.

Public sector initiatives are underpinning a new wave of private sector growth across the region.

Northern Irish manufacturers are managing to grow and innovate despite having to navigate strong headwinds in the form of Brexit, rising costs and a shortage of skilled labour.

Manufacturing investments in the East Midlands are accelerating. Formula 1 is in pole position currently but a raft of opportunities in established and emerging markets mean future growth is almost guaranteed.