Rising employment taxes, business costs, and global trade uncertainty are forcing UK manufacturers to halt recruitment, consider job cuts, and scale back investment, according to a new report by Make UK and BDO.
The report surveyed over 300 manufacturers and found that financial pressures are stalling growth, with some firms cancelling investment plans entirely. Make UK calls on the Government to reform business rates, overhaul the skills system, and introduce a long-term industrial strategy focused on advanced manufacturing.
The industry group warns that manufacturers will struggle to compete and expand in the current economic climate without immediate policy support.
