Ten years after the UK’s Modern Slavery Act came into force, modern slavery has grown, not shrunk. An estimated 122,000 people are trapped in modern slavery in the UK today - twelve times the government’s original estimate. In 2024 alone, over 19,000 potential victims were referred for support, while prosecutions remain alarmingly low at 1.8%.
Victims are commonly exploited for labour, criminal activity, or sexual abuse - often in plain sight. Industries like care, construction, car washes, and logistics are particularly vulnerable. Beyond UK borders, £21 billion of imported goods each year - such as electronics, textiles, and seafood - are at high risk of being linked to forced labour.
For UK manufacturers, this isn’t just a human rights issue. It’s a compliance, reputational, and ethical imperative.
The Act and its impact
Introduced in 2015, the Modern Slavery Act (MSA) was a world-first, requiring large companies (with turnover over £36 million) to publish annual Modern Slavery Statements, outlining how they address slavery risks in their business and supply chains. These statements must be board-approved and publicly accessible.
While small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are not legally bound by this requirement, many are contractually obliged to comply by larger clients. Public and private sector buyers increasingly demand ethical assurance across the entire supply chain.
But the legal duty is just the start. Under Sections 1 and 2 of the Act, any involvement in slavery, forced labour or trafficking is a criminal offence, punishable by life imprisonment. This applies to all businesses, regardless of size.
Why SMEs must act
SMEs, particularly in manufacturing, are often closer to the risk, due to:
- Complex supply chains
- Outsourced labour and subcontracting
- Reliance on agency or seasonal workers
- Failing to act exposes businesses to:
- Lost contracts from major buyers
- Reputational damage
- Operational disruption due to audits, investigations, or supplier non-compliance
SMEs are often closer to the risk. Many operate in sectors with high vulnerability to exploitation, such as:
| Manufacturing & Electronics | Outsourced labour, complex supply chains, low-cost sourcing. |
| Apparel & Textiles | Informal subcontracting, seasonal demand, migrant labour. |
| Food Processing & Packaging | Temporary workers, agency labour, low-wage environments. |
| Construction & Engineering | Subcontracting chains, informal recruitment, migrant workforce. |
| Warehousing & Logistics | Zero-hour contracts, third-party labour providers, poor oversight. |
What manufacturers should do
To create a “toxic environment” for exploitation, businesses should embed ethical vigilance through:
Risk assessments
Map your supply chain, identify high-risk areas, and use tools like the Modern Slavery Assessment Tool (MSAT) or Sedex.
Due diligence
Vet suppliers, add modern slavery clauses to contracts, and conduct regular audits—especially where risks are highest.
Training and awareness
Train staff to recognise signs of exploitation, encourage whistleblowing, and ensure procurement and management teams are equipped to act.
Voluntary modern slavery statement
Even if not required, a clear statement builds trust and shows leadership. Include policies, risk management, KPIs, and training measures.
Collaborate and lead
Join platforms like Stronger Together, the Ethical Trading Initiative, or Sedex to share learning and raise sector standards.
Case in point: Made in Britain member Marshalls plc is tackling modern slavery with frontline staff and leadership. Their approach proves that action is possible and effective.
Beyond compliance: A cultural commitment
Addressing modern slavery is about more than legal compliance. It’s about creating a culture of dignity, vigilance, and accountability - from the factory floor to global suppliers. Ethical supply chains are now a competitive advantage, not just a moral one.
As we enter the second decade of the Act, the question is no longer whether SMEs should act, but how boldly and how soon.
Read more about tackling modern slavery in my book 'Chains Unseen'. Download it today for free for practical tools and checklists.
Professor Chris Harrop OBE is visiting professor in sustainable business at the University of Huddersfield Business School.
By Made in Britain 4 days ago | By Made in Britain