With over £500 million predicted to be invested into UK manufacturing through reshoring, according to a recent Capgemini report, British industry faces a pivotal moment. As new Trump-led tariffs drive a fresh wave of protectionist policy, manufacturers globally are being forced to reassess supply chains. For the UK, this presents not only a challenge—but an opportunity to back British manufacturing and reshape our industrial future.
Capgemini's study highlights that large organisations in Europe and the US are now prioritising reindustrialisation over short-term profits. This shift reflects growing awareness around the risks of global dependency and the rising importance of supply chain resilience. gemini Press Release
One example closer to home is TWP Manufacturing, a privately owned SME and long-time Made in the Midlands member. Despite ongoing global challenges, TWP has consistently reshored production from the Far East over several years. Managing Director Phil Stanley stated, “It hasn’t always been easy, but reshoring has helped us take greater control of quality, lead times and customer relationships—we're proud to be backing Britain.” This shift reflects growing awareness around the risks of global dependency and the rising importance of supply chain resilience.
The UK’s manufacturing base is uniquely positioned—but also faces serious challenges. While many global companies invest in UK operations, Jason Pitt, CEO of Made in Group, notes this wasn’t part of a strategic plan: “What global companies bring to the UK is innovation, access to other markets and investment. However, this was not strategic—it was a consequence of the UK having no protection policies, a culture that's often anti-business and a lack of understanding at the top level about the importance of supply chain resilience, hence why we supported a movement to appoint a Minister of Manufacturuing.”
Made in Group members have been championing reshoring, with discussions ranging from energy solutions to success stories across the community.
Real action has followed. Interplas, a Made in the Midlands member, announced new investments in automation as part of their reshoring strategy in May 2024. Later that year, Frost Electroplating joined the "Backing Britain" campaign, showing a clear commitment to innovation and onshore production.
Pictured: Seamus Bourke, Director, Frost Electroplating and Ilona Pitt, Director of Made in Group
Through regional events, factory tours, and virtual roundtables, the Made in Group fosters a platform where members share concise insights and practical advice. Over 40 topics have been covered in recent years, with localisation—reshoring, near-shoring, and friend-shoring—consistently topping the agenda.
Reshoring is not just about geopolitics—it’s increasingly a sustainability solution. Producing closer to home reduces emissions, shortens supply chains, and allows for faster response to market needs.
Despite this momentum, there remains a gap in understanding. Many procurement professionals aren’t aware of UK manufacturers’ capabilities. Manufacturers must do more to promote themselves, and buyers need to engage beyond desktop research. Site visits, open conversations, and clear expectations will go a long way in creating more opportunities for UK businesses.
Whether you're a British family-run manufacturer or a UK-based subsidiary of a global firm, the message is the same: buying British supports the economy, strengthens supply chains, and improves sustainability.
Trump’s tariffs may create short-term disruption, but they signal a longer-term shift. As geopolitical analyst Peter Zeihan and others have noted, the era of globalised production is coming to an end. Read Zeihan's analysis
The UK's response must be strategic and inclusive. Industrial communities—already under pressure—deserve investment, not added strain. Reshoring offers a real path to rebuild regional economies and close the gap between political rhetoric and real opportunity.
At Made in Group, we believe collaboration is the way forward. By sharing best practices, learning from each other, and making time for digital roundtables or factory tours, we can reshape British manufacturing.
This is a call to action. Join the movement. Engage with your peers. Be visible and be part of the solution.
Let’s show the world that the UK isn’t just open for business—it’s ready to build the future, right here at home.
Members, share your stories with the community or RSVP for upcoming events—right from your dashboard!