A Nottingham-based packaging giant has bolstered its current machinery fleet by investing in a £1.4m die-cutter. The Bobst Expertcut 106 PER 3.0 is the latest machine to arrive on site after a massive investment programme for the Nottingham headquarters. It had to be specially built from scratch in Switzerland, before making its way to The Wilkins Group in Colwick Nottingham. It is anticipated that the new addition will further increase productivity and efficiency in the production of folding cartons for the global brand and help deliver its full order book for 2025. The new machine is equipped with Bobst’s latest ‘Smart Feeder 2’ technology as well as an APT logistics system. This specialist machine die-cuts printed sheets and then strips the internal waste away and fully blanks the cartons onto the pallet, all at a tremendous 9,000 sheets per hour. It is expected that the new Expertcut 106 PER 3.0 will handle 40 million sheets annually. Joint managing director Justin Wilkins said: “Equipped with a Centreline system, this new equipment will allow for quick job changeovers, enhancing our productivity and ultimately enhancing our efficiency and delivery for customers." "It will ensure that we can maintain the quality that our customers are used to whilst adding to our order book for 2025." The commissioned Expertcut 106 PER 3.0 includes power register 3, which automatically controls the print register, ensuring a high-quality job every time. In addition to the ‘Smart Feeder 2’ technology, the machine boasts an independent feeder with electrical drive-shaft as well as ‘Quick Set’ and ‘Stop & Go’ functions. The Expertcut also has an APT logistics system, which automatically changes the pallets over and does not require any operator intervention. The Wilkins Group is a family run firm that produces food packaging for many of the UK's leading brands – including Pukka, Pizza Express, Harrods, and Cadbury’s to name a few. It also is credited with producing bespoke and award-winning items such as eco-friendly hangers and the iconic M&S light-up glitter gin bottles. Justin added: “We have bought many machines from Bobst over the years and this latest addition, with its enhanced features such as the APT logistics system, further expands and enhances our die-cutting capabilities. It will ensure that our ambitious plans for the future remain on track.” The new Bobst Expertcut 106 PER 3.0 marks the latest investment in The Wilkins Group’s UK headquarters. The die-cutting department now is unrivalled in the industry and the company is super proud of its achievements in this area.

Leading glass packaging company, Croxsons, has recently appointed Jim Harrower as their new sales manager for Scotland and Ireland. Jim brings over 15 years of experience in the FMCG drinks industry, including five years dedicated to glass packaging. Reporting to Matthew Winfield, Croxsons’ UK sales manager, Jim’s new role focuses on driving sales, expanding distribution and increasing market share of Croxsons’ primary packaging solutions across key sectors, including spirits, beer, food, non-alcoholic beverages and wine. Commenting on his new position, Jim said: “I was attracted to this role because of Croxsons’ excellent reputation and rich history in the packaging industry. The company’s strong values and commitment to its people make it an incredibly appealing place to work.” On a personal note, he added: “Joining Croxsons marks an exciting step in my career. I’m thrilled to continue working in an industry I’m passionate about, with a forward-thinking company that has a great culture. I’m looking forward to contributing to Croxsons’ success in Scotland and Ireland.” “With a proven track record and a passion for delivering value to customers, I’m confident that Jim will further strengthen Croxsons’ presence in these regions, ensuring the company continues to meet the needs of its diverse and growing client base. His appointment aligns with our ongoing strategic plan for growth,” said Croxsons’ CEO, Tim Croxson. Croxsons, a family-owned glass packaging company with over 150 years of expertise, provides bespoke glass containers and closures for the food and beverage industry worldwide. Headquartered in Surrey, UK, with a global presence, the company is recognised for its innovation, sustainability and exceptional quality.

Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood MP dropped into JCB on National Pothole Day – to see close up a machine which is helping fix the nationwide scourge of Britain’s highways. The Nottingham South MP visited the JCB Power Systems factory in Foston, Derbyshire to watch the JCB Pothole Pro in action. Derbyshire has been highlighted as the worst area in England for potholes and is set to benefit from a share of the Government’s record £1.6 billion investment to resurface roads across England. JCB’s Pothole Pro - which is already in use with councils across the UK - can fix a pothole in eight minutes at a cost of around £30 – half the cost of traditional methods. Lilian Greenwood said: “Today is National Pothole Day and I am absolutely delighted to be with JCB in Derbyshire. We are investing a record £1.6 billion in fixing our roads, which is going to make a real difference to constituents not just here in Derbyshire, but across the whole of England, which will see smoother and safer roads." “It’s really important that we make best use of that funding and local authorities look at what new technologies and innovations they can adopt to make sure they can fix as many potholes in a permanent way." “One of the things people get really frustrated about is that a pothole gets fixed and then it’s in the same state a few months later, so it’s really important that local authorities are looking at new innovations and equipment. JCB’s Pothole Pro is one of the many great examples of using new technology to repair potholes faster and demonstrates how companies are harnessing new technology to repair potholes faster.” JCB Municipalities General Manager Ben Rawding said: “As the Government embarks on a huge investment in England’s roads, we were delighted to show the Future of Roads Minister just how innovative and cost effective the JCB Pothole Pro is at providing a permanent fix for potholes.”

Families in Possilpark will once again enjoy delicious takeaway themed meals for just £1, thanks to a £5,850 donation from Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust to Courtyard Pantry Enterprise's "Friday Night Takeaway" initiative. Courtyard Pantry Enterprise supports individuals and families facing financial challenges by offering affordable access to food and other essentials. Their programmes focus on encouraging community spirit and easing financial pressures in creative, inclusive ways. The cost-of-living crisis, and the rising costs of food over the last few years, has meant that for many families in the North Glasgow community, a takeaway is a luxury that is simply unaffordable. The Friday Night Takeaway project aims to break through that financial barrier, bringing takeaway to everyone in the community, regardless of their income. Dale Todd from Courtyard Pantry Enterprise said: “We are delighted to have support from the Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust for our Friday Night Takeaway project. We’ll be able to provide a takeaway for up to a family of four for a nominal fee of just £1, and the Friday Night Takeaway is open to all.” Allied Vehicles and the Courtyard Pantry Enterprise have had a relationship since early 2022, with The Trust donating almost £24,000 since then to help the charity keep locals fed. Previous donations funded projects such as subsidised grocery shopping, a Community Meals initiative and Breakfast Clubs. The recent funding for Friday Night Takeaway will help Courtyard Pantry to prepare a total of 900 meal portions over three to four months with each person receiving a meal which includes a starter, main and dessert. Previously, the charity has created delicious Chinese, Indian and Italian themed meals which proved to be extremely popular. Gerry Facenna, founder and owner of Allied Vehicles Group, who grew up in Possilpark, said: “The Friday Night Takeaway is a fantastic idea, and Courtyard Pantry is a wonderful project which has been making a real difference in our local community for years. We are proud to be able to support their efforts again.”

Managing Director of AW Hainsworth, Amanda McLaren, has been recruited to the position of Deputy Lieutenant of West Yorkshire by the Monarch’s Lord-Lieutenant, Ed Anderson CBE. Amanda will support Ed Anderson CBE, the Monarch's personal representative in West Yorkshire, in representing the Crown, developing closer links among the community, and upholding public service and civic engagement traditions. The Lord Lieutenant’s duties can include escorting royal visitors with official visits to West Yorkshire, representing the King at community events, being involved in the honours system – including presenting them on behalf of the Crown and generally contributing to the community with involvement in local events. She was appointed to the role at the same time as new Deputy Lieutenant Canon Kersten England CBE. Amanda is an Executive Board Director who has worked with UK-based SMEs and global manufacturing businesses over the last 35 years, gaining experience in mechanical engineering, electronics, automotive, leisure and textile sectors. For over 20 years, she has operated at executive board level within the textile sector, always maintaining a passion for a ‘people-first approach’ to doing business throughout her professional career. In her current role at AW Hainsworth, Amanda has been credited with personally driving a mental health and wellbeing strategy throughout the business over the last three years, with many employees benefiting from further education and awareness through professionally run workshops and personal support from the company’s on-site mental health counselling service. Amanda has always lived in West Yorkshire and has studied and worked in and around the county for most of her career. She sits on the LITAC (Leeds University Institute for Textile and Colour) Committee, representing as an industry expert, and is also a Non-Executive Director on the Huddersfield-based TCEO (Textile Centre of Excellence) Board, an indication of her passion for UK Textile manufacturing. Aside from her professional career, Amanda has been married to her husband, Mark—an experienced mechanical engineer—for over 33 years. They have two adult children, Alyssa and Ethan. Amanda explains, “I was honoured to be nominated by Ed Anderson to become a Deputy Lieutenant for our region. Receiving my commission of appointment by command of HM the King was a very proud moment." “I’m looking forward to assisting with any duties that may be required within the Lieutenancy, contributing to the local community and working closely with the other Deputy Lieutenants for West Yorkshire, deploying my professional and personal knowledge and experience.” AW Hainsworth is a heritage textile mill established in 1783 and based in West Yorkshire, that integrates the traditional qualities of craftsmanship with cutting-edge innovation and product development to create exquisite woollen cloth, high-performing textiles, and iconic fabrics for customers worldwide. The specialist textile company is the parent company to Hainsworth Signature Fabrics, Hainsworth Protective Fabrics, Hainsworth Cue Sports Fabrics, John Atkinson by Hainsworth, Natural Legacy by Hainsworth, Northern Rubber by Hainsworth, and Replin by Hainsworth. The manufacturer has recently been granted a Royal Warrant of Appointment to His Majesty the King as Manufacturers of Furnishing Fabrics. The mill has held a Royal Warrant for two decades, initially awarded in 2004 and renewed periodically. Last year, the vertical production mill revealed a rebrand, achieved zero landfill status and collaborated with Clarks Originals.

Noble Foods is tapping into consumer trends and food interests to shape the future of egg-based innovation. With its new state-of-the-art innovation hub in Leicester now fully operational, Noble Foods is delivering adaptable, trend-led solutions to meet the growing demand for nutritious, versatile and convenient foods. At the heart of this evolution is the launch of Noble Foods’ first-ever frozen omelettes, available in Original and Cheese varieties, and with new flavours already in development for later this year. This marks the first of many upcoming innovations as Noble Foods continues to explore egg-based solutions for modern lifestyles. “Eggs are nature’s multivitamin,” says Anita Nutchey, Head of Marketing & Innovation at Noble Foods. “They’re versatile, nutritious, and uniquely positioned to meet the needs of consumers looking for tasty, healthy solutions. With time at a premium, we know consumers are looking for convenience and currently eggs aren’t always perceived as a quick solution. Whether consumers are looking for a quick breakfast, speedy dinner solution or snack on the go, our Leicester facility allows us to unlock the full potential of eggs." "With a future pipeline already in development to bring innovative, egg-based solutions for consumers to enjoy eggs in any occasion, no matter where they are.” The decision to start with omelettes reflects their immense popularity, with 208 million omelette occasions annually - more than classic meals like fajitas or stir-fry’s. With 60% of consumers finding fresh omelettes inconvenient to make and 38% agreeing they rarely have time to cook eggs in the morning, the frozen omelette range is designed to address two key consumer opportunities: growing eggs’ role in lunch, dinner, and snacking while reinforcing their popularity at breakfast. Eggs are a staple in UK households, purchased by 94% of shoppers, with the category achieving £1.7bn in retail sales value, growing at +7.0% annually. Despite the popularity of eggs, almost 1 in 3 consumers rely heavily on convenience products due to busy lifestyles and the rise of quick-to-go meal trends. The new Leicester facility is more than a manufacturing site; it’s a hub for culinary innovation and creativity. By combining sustainability, versatility, and high-protein and nutritional solutions, it positions Noble Foods as a leader in meeting modern consumer needs while driving demand for eggs from its network of over 200 British egg farmers. The launch of frozen omelettes, including those under the Happy Egg brand, showcases Noble Foods' dedication to creating innovative egg-based solutions designed to meet the needs of food service customers and consumers alike. This marks the start of an exciting new chapter for Noble Foods—where eggs are reimagined as the foundation for convenient, nutritious, and delicious solutions that align with modern lifestyles and evolving consumer trends.

Baked Earth Bakery is launching its seasonal heart-shaped mini garlic and coriander naans exclusively into retail giant Aldi ready for the romantic month of February. The Love Bites will be on the shelves of approximately 1,000 stores UK-wide from 30th January for a limited period as part of Aldi’s Valentine’s range. Supplied in award-winning packaging, the Love Bites are one of a seasonal range of mini garlic and coriander naan bites that the Nottingham-based bakery has developed for the retail sector. Others have been created for Easter, Halloween and Christmas. The naan bites are produced from the same traditional recipe that the Butt family has been using to make naans for more than 50 years and will give Aldi customers the chance to woo their lovers with authentic savoury treats. Perfect as a side, canapé, mini pizza base, for dipping, or as a party snack, the Love Bites are vegan-friendly and are available in packs of 20. Dan Butt, MD of Baked Earth Bakery, said: “We’re thrilled that Aldi will be exclusively stocking our new garlic and coriander Love Bites. We know that their customers will love these delicious mini naans – they’re the perfect way to their partner’s heart. It truly is a match made in heaven.” The news comes as Baked Earth Bakery reveals it enjoyed its busiest year yet in 2024. The company launched 25 new products into the retail and food service sectors – the most it has ever achieved in a 12-month period – and also gained BRC AA+ grading for its facilities following an unannounced visit. The BRCGS standards set the benchmark for good manufacturing practices and an AA+ grading is the highest standard awarded. Baked Earth Bakery makes on average 300,000 flatbreads, naans and other bakery products every day at its manufacturing facilities in Lenton, Nottingham, which equates to more than 100 million per year. Dan Butt added: “Baked Earth Bakery had an exceptional year in 2024, with the launch of new products into both retail and the food service sectors and also into the ambient and frozen sectors. We will build on this in 2025 and already have exciting opportunities on the horizon." “We plan to invest significantly into our manufacturing operations this year which will help us to continue to be creative and dynamic, developing bakery products that go down well both with our customers and with the customers of our retail and food service partners.”

The Department for Business and Trade’s (DBT) Made in the UK, Sold to the World Awards are open for SMEs to enter until 9 March, with the addition of two new categories and an expanded prize package to honour exceptional accomplishments in global trading.  The awards celebrate the international sales success of SMEs across the UK and provide a stepping stone for further growth and opportunity. This year, two new categories have been added: Digital & Technology and Export Services – the latter aiming to recognise the contribution of businesses that facilitate UK exports. The other categories cover Advanced Manufacturing & Construction; Agriculture, Food & Drink; Consultancy & Professional Services; Creative Industries; Education & EdTech; Financial Services & FinTech; Healthcare; Infrastructure and Engineering; Low Carbon Energy; and Retail & Consumer Goods.  Lloyds Bank has joined as a partner for the 2025 awards, in addition to the founding partner, the Chartered Institute of Export & International Trade. The winners’ package has been updated to include a year’s free business membership to the Chartered Institute; a working capital masterclass with a Lloyds Bank trade expert; professional photos of their business; and an invitation to the winners’ reception in London. They will also receive a trophy, certificate and digital badge, and bespoke promotion on DBT’s channels. Those that are highly commended will also receive a year’s free membership to the Chartered Institute.  Gareth Thomas, Minister for Services, Small Businesses and Exports, underscored the significance of the awards in recognising the ambition of small businesses across the country.   Gareth Thomas, Minister for Services, Small Businesses and Exports, said:   “When small businesses export, it opens a wealth of incredible opportunities. These awards are a testament to the innovation that British SMEs display day in, day out.   “As we enter the new year, our Plan for Change is about ensuring businesses across the country can thrive and grow. This will boost jobs and wages and firms that export are at the forefront of that growth. I encourage all those who have started on the exporting ladder to enter and showcase their success.”  Information on how to enter, including key dates, can be found here.

A new exhibition featuring a combination of fine art and ceramics has opened at a Lake District spa resort on the shores of Windermere. The abstract paintings of Terry Beard and the Raku ceramics of Stephen Murfitt are the central focus of the new ‘Pathways’ exhibition in the ‘Art in the Atrium’ gallery at Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa. The latest display has been organised by English Lakes Hotels Resorts & Venues in partnership with Lancaster based Gavagan Art. The two artists, who are married to each other, live and work by a nature reserve in the Huntingdonshire Fens, where they share a studio in a rural setting which informs and inspires much of their work. Terry was born in Canada and spent her childhood in Uganda and Ireland. With an MA in printed textiles, she worked as a freelance textile designer and illustrator before her work became widely exhibited in the UK with displays in Ely, Cambridge, Stamford and London. She has also featured in international exhibitions in Italy and the USA and has work in numerous private and corporate collections. Following his degree in 3D design specialising in ceramics, Stephen spent several years as ceramics tutor at Marlborough College before setting up his own studio with his wife. His focus is on hand-building and Raku firing his forms and vessels which have been exhibited widely across the UK. Stephen is also the published author of two books on ceramics, ‘The Glaze Book’ and ‘Contemporary Raku’. Executive chairman of English Lakes Hotels Simon Berry says: “This is another inspirational gallery display for our ‘Art in the Atrium’ exhibition, all the more special as we are showcasing the works of a married couple, each with their own unique talents." “Terry says her work is greatly influenced by the waters, woodlands and agricultural landscapes of the Fenlands. The influences on Stephen’s work come from a fusion of visual and tactile elements seen in natural and built environments, and he says the effects of weathering and erosion provide a constant source of reference.” Mary Gavagan from Gavagan Art adds: “Terry and Stephen are both fabulous artists in their own right. They have developed their skills and practice over many years, evolving and refining their ideas." “The Raku firing process which Stephen uses to bring his ceramics to life is dramatic. I first exhibited his work in the 1980s at Gawthorpe Hall in Lancashire and in the 1990s at Lancaster University, so it’s been great to follow his career." “Terry has received several prestigious accolades including a Cass Art Award and a London Invitational Award finalist nomination. She has also featured in a host of international exhibitions, notably in Italy with displays such as ‘Anima Mundi’ in Venice, ‘Fluxus’ in Milan and ‘Dialogue Among the Antitheses in Rome.”

Krista Halttunen, PhD has been named the first CEO of Halton Group’s parent company. Her task will be to develop Halton Ventures into a capable and active owner and investor as well as an attractive development partner. Halton Ventures invests in startup companies, innovations, and investment funds that improve built and indoor environments in a sustainable way. Every investment is made with a long-term perspective. New ventures and investments support Halton’s core business and unlock opportunities for renewal. The parent company was founded two years ago to be a responsible owner and investor. The new 33-year-old CEO, Krista Halttunen, started on 1.1.2025. “I feel that at Halton, I will have the opportunity to advance the green transition even more than in my previous roles as an academic and a civil servant. Halton gives me both the possibility and the responsibility to build new business activities with real impact. It feels good to take advantage of that, especially as we do not have any time to waste”, Krista Halttunen says. “Value-driven family entrepreneurship and strategic business development are also important to me.” Krista Halttunen is an international expert in sustainable development and the green transition. She has a Master’s in Physics and Philosophy from the University of Oxford and a PhD in Environmental Policy from Imperial College London. She has also worked as a management consultant at the Boston Consulting Group, a policy manager at the UK energy regulator, and a sustainable finance researcher at the University of Oxford. Taking on a CEO role in the family business was not an easy decision for Krista. It also meant moving back to Finland. However, the possibility of strategic development, active ownership, and the opportunity to think big convinced her to jump aboard. The Chair of the Board, Tarja Takki-Halttunen said: “Krista has knowledge and experience that suits the development of Halton Ventures very well. She also has an extensive international network." “Halton Ventures enables the long-term strategic development of Halton Group. Factors affecting high-quality indoor air, the well-being of people, and the green transition are more important to us than the return on investment. Halton Group’s new internal initiatives can also be moved into the parent company for further development.” Halton Ventures' mission is to positively influence society and the environment through innovation and entrepreneurship. Its values also include sustainability and the fair treatment of others. “The world is nowhere near ready yet. Now it’s time to get to work”, Krista Halttunen says. Krista Halttunen’s grandfather, Seppo Halttunen, founded Halton in 1969. Her parents, Mika Halttunen and Tarja Takki-Halttunen, have been steering the family business for over 30 years. In addition to the Chair, the Halton Ventures Board of Directors includes Mika Halttunen and the third-generation family members CEO Krista Halttunen and Vice Chair Aleksi Halttunen. Krista and Aleksi are already long-standing members of Halton Group’s Board of Directors.

Private equity firms invest funds raised from institutional investors (such as pension funds, family offices and charitable trusts) in to privately held companies with the goal of sustainably growing or improving that business and creating value. The landscape in which private equity operates in the UK has dramatically changed in the past two decades. Both the amount of capital available to invest and the number of Private Equity houses investing in UK companies has grown since the financial crisis in 2007/08. As the PE industry has grown and matured, the prevalence of investing and supporting family-owned business has also grown. However, misconceptions about the private equity industry still exist which may be hindering succession and exit options for a family business. With the recent tax changes, some family businesses may be considering wider options for the transition of the business. This article attempts to de-bunk some myths around private equity and highlight some of the key benefits that working with a private equity fund can bring to a family business. Myth 1: Private Equity Investors Are Short-Term Focused. Although Private Equity investors are only temporary custodians of a business, their main goal is to drive long-term, sustainable value. This will involve working with management to create a value creation plan which sets out how the business will achieve its long term strategy and be in a better position than when the private equity firm firsts invests. The goal for investors is to create value, not just while the business is under private equity ownership but to also demonstrate value for its future owners. This often includes investing in people, supporting capital expenditure projects, targeted bolt-on acquisitions and other long-term commercial and operational initiatives. Myth 2: Private Equity Firms Bring In Their Own Management Team To Run The Business. A suitably incentivised management team is a key part of any investment story and the success of the business is reliant on that team to effectively execute the value creation plan. Private Equity firms are looking for strong management teams to back but can also be flexible around the circumstances of individuals within a team who may be looking to transition away from the business. Private equity firms can help strengthen corporate governance by providing additional expertise through specific non-executive support to help bolster a leadership team, if required. Myth 3: Private Equity Firms Only Look For High-Growth Tech Companies. Wrong! There are many different types of private equity funds, all of which will have a different investment strategy, covering all sectors and life-cycle stages. In contrast to Venture Capital funds who invest in start-up/early-stage businesses, Private equity funds typically invest in established businesses. Myth 4: Any Deal Will Take Too Long To Complete And The Information Requirements Will Distract From The Running Of Our Business. PE investors are experienced deal doers and aim to minimise distraction to businesses and management teams. For example at Endless we have a dedicated Financial Due Diligence team and are able to fully fund a deal ourselves which allows a streamlined process and keeps disruption to a minimum. Myth 5: Will Our Company Balance Sheet Be Loaded With Unsustainable Levels Of Debt? Typically, a Private Equity fund will use a mixture of debt and equity to fund a transaction. The Private Equity investor will look to create a capital structure that provides the business with funding for growth and carefully manages debt-service costs. One of the key aims of a Private Equity investor is to improve the company’s financial health. Deciding to pursue third party investment for a family business can be a really difficult decision, so finding an impactful, energetic and empathetic partner to work with during the transition is vital. Partnering with a private equity investor can provide a good option to ensure the smooth transition of ownership whilst securing an injection of capital to allow the business to pursue its growth objectives. About The Author: Rosie Ramsey is an Investment Manager at Endless LLP, a private equity investor who are looking to invest between £1m and £100m in to UK businesses across a variety of sectors with revenues of £15m to £1bn+. Endless take a hands-on approach, working with founders and Management teams to ensure the value they have created is protected and there is a smooth transition to new ownership. They offer a solution where the family's legacy remains intact, and the business's growth potential is maximised through access to capital, knowledge, skills and a broader network of business professionals. Endless’ impact is not just to provide capital and investment but also invaluable support and expertise. The team at Endless are always happy to discuss how private equity could be part of your succession story. If you would like to talk confidentially to explore whether private equity could be the right home for your business, please contact Rosie at roseanna.ramsey@endlessllp.com or visit their website here

Britain’s manufacturers believe the introduction of an industrial strategy will be a game changer for increasing investment and boosting productivity, while helping them secure the skills they need for the future according to a major survey published today. The findings come from the annual Make UK/PwC Senior Executive survey which asks senior manufacturing Executives on the opportunities, risks and challenges for their business in the year ahead, as well as the outlook for the UK and international economies. Key Findings: UK still seen as a competitive place to manufacture with boost to come from industrial strategy Almost six in ten companies will increase investment in response to an industrial strategy Almost half say a strategy will help them secure the skills they need and boost productivity Majority of manufacturers believe opportunities will outweigh risks in 2025 but, as many think UK economy will deteriorate as improve in 2025 More than nine in ten companies expect their employment costs to increase As well as the benefits from an industrial strategy, the survey shows that, despite the current challenges from escalating costs and a potential trade war, a majority of manufacturers believe that overall, the UK remains a competitive place in which to manufacture and the opportunities for their business in 2025 far outweigh the current risks. However, despite this view, as many think the UK economy will deteriorate as grow in 2025. In response, manufacturers are backing their belief in the UK as a place to manufacture with a significant emphasis on developing new products, entering new markets and upskilling and retraining staff. The survey also gives credence to the view of some Economists that companies will counter the impact of increased costs by investing in new technologies and automation to improve their efficiency. Following the recent consultation, Make UK is now urging Government to set out in detail as soon as possible the full proposals of a formal long term industrial strategy. Stephen Phipson, Chief Executive of Make UK, said: “Manufacturers have demonstrated their resilience over and over again in recent years and, despite the numerous challenges they face, those that remain innovative and are prepared to invest in new technologies, expanding markets and, most crucially, their people will continue to thrive. But, they can only do this if they are operating in the most favourable business environment and there is little doubt that the next twelve months are set to be immensely challenging in a complex international environment."    “To help companies navigate a way through these challenges it is now vital that Government sets out as a matter of urgency the immediate and significant priorities as part of its formal industrial strategy given the very clear benefits manufacturers believe this will bring." "By doing this, it will help re-boot business confidence and ensure the year gets off on a positive footing in terms of the relationship between industry and Government.” Cara Haffey, Leader of Industrials and Services at PwC UK, said: "While it's true that UK manufacturers are navigating a complex business landscape - compounded by rising costs - there's a palpable sense of optimism and resilience underpinning the sector's trajectory for 2025." "This optimism is fuelled by hopes of increasing clarity on the proposed UK industrial strategy, as well as a decisive shift towards technology adoption. The sector is moving from viewing technology as a source of incremental improvements towards acknowledging its power to transform operations." “Additionally, there's a strong focus on innovation, with companies investing in new product lines and business development to seize growth opportunities. This approach, alongside efforts in product development, upskilling, cost management, and embracing technology, positions manufacturers well to navigate challenges and contribute significantly to national economic growth." According to the survey, more than half of companies (57%) say they will increase investment in response to a long term industrial strategy. In addition, more than four in ten (43%) companies believe such a strategy will lead to increased productivity and a similar number (42%) say it will help them secure the skills they need for the future. The survey also shows that, despite the challenges companies are facing at home and abroad, almost half of companies (49%) believe the UK remains a competitive place to manufacture compared to a quarter who disagree. In addition, almost two thirds of companies (63%) believe the opportunities for their business in 2025 outweigh the risks compared to just over one in ten (14%) who disagree. Companies are responding to these challenges and opportunities by focusing on growth strategies with more than three quarters of companies (78%) developing new products, almost half deploying new technologies and more than a third (37%) planning to enter new markets. However, despite these positive intentions, as many companies think the UK economy will deteriorate in 2025 (34%) as improve (37%), while the challenges of increased costs are severe. Over nine in ten companies (92%) think their employment costs will increase, more than three quarters (76%) think the costs from other business taxes will increase and a similar number (72%) expect their logistics and transport costs to increase. In response, Make UK is urging Government to look at measures to mitigate these increases by reducing business rates in particular, as well as measures and incentives to aid decarbonisation and energy efficiency.