Three key trends in UK manufacturing

Manufacturers aren't pulling back - they're changing where, how and why they invest. The latest Manufacturing Investment Monitor, in partnership with Make UK, reveals how investment priorities are shifting across UK manufacturing, from AI adoption to supply chain resilience and long-term growth.

UK manufacturers continue to invest despite economic uncertainty, but investment priorities are evolving. From AI and digital transformation to supply chain resilience and capital investment, the latest data shows how manufacturers are responding to rising costs, changing competitive pressures and the need for long-term growth.

Investment remains a priority, but where manufacturers choose to invest is changing.

What the latest manufacturing investment data reveals

RSM's exclusive supply chain data reveals four things happening right now:

• 31.9% of manufacturers say AI and digital investment is the top priority for improving supply chain efficiency - technology is becoming a strategic choice, not just an operational one.
• 32.7% are diversifying suppliers across more countries or regions; 31% are reducing reliance on single suppliers. Supply chains are being redesigned, not just repaired.
• One in five say stronger supplier relationships and collaboration represent their biggest long-term opportunity. Resilience, it turns out, is a team sport.

And the pressure isn't easing. Geopolitics, energy costs, inflation, tariffs: the manufacturers responding best are treating resilience and efficiency as the same goal.

Where manufacturers should invest next

The question isn't whether to invest. It's where investment creates the most value.

For manufacturing leaders, finance teams and operational decision-makers, the next move is rarely obvious. That's what we're here for.

Talk to our manufacturing specialists. Tell us where you're focused - we'll tell you what the data says and what we think it means.

Download the full Manufacturing Investment Monitor report