Discussing the Challenges Facing the Manufacturing Sector
Here at Jack Arnold UK, we see firsthand the difference we make to our customers. Their wonderful feedback and recommendations mean so much to us, but the latest person to acknowledge our hard work was a little more well-known on the world stage! We recently welcomed Witham MP and former Home Secretary Priti Patel to our site so that she could see what we do first-hand.
Showcasing our work
Ms Patel visited us to get a better understanding of what we do and the role that we play in the local economy. A strong supporter of businesses in her constituency, she was really interested to see how the Jack Arnold UK team comes together every day to meet customer demand and drive innovation.
She took the time to talk to staff at all levels, from our Managing Director Jack Poulton, to our apprentices, about the challenges and opportunities that we are facing, not just as a company, but in the manufacturing sector overall. She toured the design office and factory floor and discussed government support for manufacturing, along with supply chain pressures. We also talked about the industry’s push for lower emissions and greater sustainability, two things that are so important to us.
The backbone of Britain’s economy
Ms Patel was really impressed with what she saw. “British manufacturing is the backbone of our economy, providing secure jobs, apprenticeships, and the essentials for making the UK a place of innovation and high-skilled work,” she said to the Braintree and Witham Times.
She also spoke of how she was keen to support local businesses just like us, and how she and her party aimed to do just that while they were in power. “The Conservatives have always stood up for manufacturing, ensuring fairer treatment for subcontractors, and backing the apprentices and skilled workers who are building Britain’s future.”
She said that under Conservative governments, UK manufacturing had risen to become the eighth largest in the world, with output exceeding £200 billion in 2023.
The current outlook
Lots of businesses are struggling right now, and Ms Patel recognised that. She spoke of how delays in housing and construction have built up through excessive reputation. She also recognised that SMEs and subcontractors are struggling with a lack of support when it comes to dealing with withheld payments.
We discussed how, in recent times, there seemed to be little strategy to drive growth in the manufacturing industry, and how it is assumed that higher taxes and administrative costs can just be absorbed by businesses.
Speaking of the current government’s approach, Ms Patel was clear in her disapproval. “Discussions at Jack Arnold UK have made it clear that this approach is harming our local economy, and risks putting people out of work.”
“But instead of supporting this sector, Labour has chosen to tie it down with red tape, higher taxes, and a complete lack of a clear plan.
A visit to remember
It meant a lot to have such a prominent MP and the local press shine a light on what we do and how the manufacturing sector is facing more challenges than ever. Despite that, we are still driven to do our bit to create jobs and support our local community.
