Those of you involved in chemical manufacturing will no doubt be interested to learn that Britain is in fact the ninth largest industrial nation, thanks to its annual output that’s worth an impressive £247 billion.
Figures from EEF, the manufacturers’ organisation, and Santander show that British manufacturing actually accounts for ten per cent of gross value added to the economy as well as accounting for 14 per cent of business investment and 68 per cent of research and development.
Regionally, London and the south-east are the biggest manufacturing areas with nearly £28 billion in output produced, while the north-west (£23.7 billion) and the West and East Midlands (£16.4 billion each) all contribute significantly as well.
“It is great news that the UK has re-entered the top ten manufacturing nations. It is interesting to see that there has been growth in the non-traditional sectors and regions showing the increasing importance that manufacturing has across the country. However, to build momentum on this renewed optimism manufacturing businesses in the UK must look at the opportunities beyond our own borders to extend their growth potential,” head of manufacturing at Santander Corporate & Commercial Charles Garfit said.
Further research from EEF revealed this month (September 20th) that just 23 per cent of manufacturers in the UK say the UK shouldn’t adopt EU waste directives. And where EU chemicals legislation is concerned, just 23 per cent are keen to see this dropped. The report went on to note that serious progress has been made in environmental standards and those in the industry are eager to see this continue.