Drive to expand SW's influence as leading light of UK manufacturing

THE Great South West Partnership has launched a major new manufacturing investment plan, backed by Make UK, a renewed South West Manufacturers' Network and the roll-out of the 'made smarter' programme across the region.

- BY STAFF REPORTER

They represent a co-ordinated effort to position the Great South West as a powerhouse for UK manufacturing and a magnet for global trade, investment, innovation and industrial talent.

The region already has the second largest advanced manufacturing capability in the UK and is critical to the delivery of the Government's recently released industrial strategy, which identifies the South West as one of the UK's leading areas for advanced manufacturing, with specific strengths in clean energy, defence, agri-tech, batteries and maritime autonomy.

Karl Tucker, chair of the Great South West Partnership, said: "Manufacturing in the Great South West is a national asset.

"Our world-class capabilities in aerospace, marine, defence, clean energy, agritech and advanced engineering are already helping to secure the UK's economic resilience and national security. As global supply chains shift and investment in sovereign capabilities grows, the South West is uniquely positioned to lead. If you want to be part of the UK's manufacturing future, this is where it starts."

The region employs more than 120,000 people in manufacturing, contributes £7.4 billion in GVA and invests £780 million annually in research and development in this area.

The new manufacturing investment plan focuses on high-impact areas:

>> Promoting the region in national and global markets

>> Strengthening innovation networks

>> Addressing skills and workforce challenges

>> Supporting business growth and investment.