_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Trends
Five top trends for UK manufacturers
As 2026 approaches, UK manufacturers have an opportunity to review both their internal processes and the wider market landscape to pinpoint areas where they can strengthen their competitive edge and fuel growth in the year ahead.
The story for 2025 was one of emerging technologies, such as digital twins and generative AI, becoming increasingly common. While these trends will continue in 2026 with a more strategic approach, the big stories for the new year will see manufacturers investing in cybersecurity, meeting growing customer expectations and reinforcing their full supply chain.
To prepare for the year ahead, we explore five key trends for manufacturers, featuring insights from David White, Operations Manager at GTK UK Limited, specialist in custom cable assemblies.
Shipping chain diversification protects manufacturers
In recent years, manufacturers around the world have felt the supply chain squeeze, with external pressures, worldwide conflicts and more impacting some businesses’ ability to meet deadlines.
Last year, a study found that over half of UK manufacturers were choosing to‘ reshore’ their manufacturing, returning
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