By John Pearce, CEO, Made in Britain
In a month that feels hotter than it should be, with the headlines full of business announcements, it’s essential to recognise that most, if not all, of these developments are directly tied to the future prosperity of our sector. By extension, they impact the overall well-being of the people who dedicate their efforts to growing responsible British manufacturing.
The growing importance of local manufacturing
In a world where uncertainty seems constant—whether it's the chaos of random tariff announcements, shipping disruptions like the Suez Canal blockage, or economic turbulence—local manufacturing is becoming more crucial every day. Since the founding of Made in Britain, we've seen a growing public discourse about the importance of making things locally and sourcing goods from closer to home. This isn't about rejecting globalisation entirely—rather, it’s about practising common-sense trade and responsible business in a world where values still matter.
Ultimately, we all want to do business with people we trust—companies that have nothing to hide and operate with transparency. This is why making locally and relying on trusted partners is more vital than ever before.
Thinking in decades, not days
In these times of unpredictability, my personal motto is to think in decades, not days. I focus on the message and the truth, rather than the media buzz and short-term reach. When we look back on this period in history, what will we say about the steps we took to cope with these challenges? How did we contribute to making things better, faster than they became worse?
At Made in Britain, we are doing our best in many different ways, driven by a shared commitment to our collective ambition. Our officially recognised trademark stands as a symbol of this dedication and the positive impact of responsible manufacturing in the UK.
The power of the Made in Britain community
I learn something new every day from our members. We are fortunate to have an incredible community of SMEs and larger manufacturers within our database—companies making everything from candles, lighting, and electronics, to vehicles, solar-powered trucks, and even pedal-powered coffee machines! These are all products that are proudly Made in Britain, and created by people who take their responsibilities to their local, regional, and national communities seriously.
I admire my members for the passion and resilience they have shown in the face of the multiple, interwoven crises that challenge their cost structures and, at times, their very determination to continue manufacturing. Yet, they carry on. They continue to make essential products for our homes, transportation, infrastructure, and daily lives—reminding us all that manufacturing in the UK will always be essential.
Manufacturing with responsibility for the future
The key to the UK’s future lies in responsibly-made products. This is where we can write a new, meaningful narrative about Britain’s place in the changing world. By focusing on improving lives, restoring the environment, and protecting shared public spaces, we have the opportunity to provide serious leadership and stewardship of our natural resources for future generations.
In a world full of noise and chaos, it’s the responsible manufacturers who can break through and offer solutions that make sense.
The decade ahead: Building trust in British manufacturing
As we look ahead to the coming decade, we must think about forging partnerships with trustworthy businesses that are producing the essential goods required for our fast-evolving world. This is where Made in Britain truly stands out: British manufacturing, for the good of everyone.
By Made in Britain 2 weeks ago | By Made in Britain