MANUFACTURERS in the UK fear they may get left behind in what they think will be a global, technology-driven fourth industrial revolution.
A new survey has revealed that while 80% of manufacturers says it will become a business reality by 2025, 58% warn the next government the UK is in danger of being left behind:
66% say that UK manufacturing’s ability to compete globally will depend on keeping up with advances in technology
According to the survey run by manufacturer’s organisation EEF, the main challenges are the levels of investment required say 70% of respondents, the impact on skills according to 59% and 58% cited the need to keep on top of technological advances.
Half of manufacturers believe that the rapid advance in technology will enable more production will be brought back to the UK and 63% say there will be increased demand for highly skilled workers.
But 66% say that UK manufacturing’s ability to compete globally will depend on keeping up with advances in technology and just 14% think that the UK is readily equipped to be a leading player.
As a result, 78% of manufacturers want to see government, industry and academia working together to secure the UK’s role in the fourth industrial revolution.
Terry Scuoler, CEO of EEF said: “The 4th industrial revolution will change the global face of manufacturing beyond recognition. The UK must take a leading role if we are to realise our ambitions for a healthy, balanced and growing economy.
“The next decade will bring great and rapid change and the early-adopting nations will maximise the opportunities presented by new technologies and thrive as a result. There will inevitably be winners and losers, which is why we should take note when manufacturers say there is a real danger of the UK being left behind.
“Our sector’s ability to remain on top of the 4th industrial wave hinges on the decisions made now and over the next decade by consecutive governments. We must continue to establish the foundations to support our manufacturing renaissance, particularly alleviating the pressure that Industry 4.0 will place on investment and skills. It is vital that the Government steps up to this challenge and works hand-in-hand with manufacturers and academia to ensure that the UK is not left behind.”
EEF will be revealing its manifesto, Securing a manufacturing renaissance: priorities for Government, at the National Manufacturing Conference on Thursday 26th February.
