Manufacturing is a crucial part of the British economy, with the sector accounting for 9.3% of total UK economic output (gross value added) and 8.1% of employment at the end of 2023, according to the government. Like many parts of the economy, it has had a challenging few years to navigate.
The latest manufacturing investment report from Moore UK member firm Moore Kingston Smith analyses manufacturing sector deals from January to June 2024.
Despite declining activity, there’s light at the end of the tunnel with a resilient manufacturing sector and brighter economic expectations ahead.
Key findings include:
- Manufacturing deal activity has declined from the highs of 2021.
- The UK continues to attract the lion’s share of deal activity in Europe.
- Investment into UK manufacturing companies from foreign investors has picked up.
- Corporate M&A activity now matches that of private equity and venture capital.
- Consumer product manufacturing, including food and drink, remains the most popular sub-sector to invest in.
