News April/May 2026 www.pwemag.co.uk Plant & Works Engineering | 07 Manufacturing has been central to the UK’s economic strength for more than a century, and as Make UK marks its 130th year, the sector finds itself at another pivotal moment. Founded in the Glasgow shipyards and shaped by generations of engineers, innovators and employers, MakeUK has always existed to champion the makers of this country. That mission remains unchanged, and is more vital than ever. Its latest report, The Shape of British Industry, reflects a sector that has evolved dramatically over the last decade. Manufacturers have faced profound geopolitical, economic and technological shifts, yet have responded with resilience, agility and ambition. Companies are investing at pace in digital technologies, AI and advanced automation; modernising factories; strengthening supply chains; and building the capabilities needed to remain competitive in an increasingly demanding global environment. At the same time, longstanding challenges, such as skills shortages, high energy costs, and inconsistent regulatory and tax frameworks, continue to constrain the UK’s competitiveness and limit the scale of investment our country should be attracting. The global context has changed fundamentally. The relative stability of recent decades has given way to a more complex, more contested world in which economic security and industrial strength are increasingly inseparable. For the UK, this presents both challenge and opportunity. To thrive, we must build a more resilient industrial base, strengthen strategic supply chains, and foster the conditions for worldleading innovation. Above all, this requires delivery: consistent, longterm policy that endures beyond political cycles and gives businesses the confidence to invest. The findings in the report underline the priorities shared across UK manufacturing: a skills system aligned to advanced industry; competitive and predictable energy costs; a modern, streamlined regulatory environment; and the delivery of an industrial strategy that provides clarity and direction. Manufacturers are ready to invest, ready to innovate and ready to lead the transition to a more digital, more sustainable and more productive economy. But they need a policy environment that matches their ambition. The UK’s history has shown that when the UK backs its makers, they deliver, from breakthrough technologies to worldclass exports and highvalue jobs in every region of the country. Looking ahead, manufacturing has a central role to play in building a stronger, more secure and more resilient economy. We hope this report provides a clear foundation for that partnership between industry and Government, and a shared understanding of what is required to unlock the full potential of British manufacturing. By MAKE UK chief executive, Stephen Phipson MAKE uk - the manufacturers’ organisation monthly news comment sponsored Contribution to Skills & Training Award for its partnership with The University of Sheffield, underlining the sector’s investment in future talent. The Project of the Year award, sponsored by World Pumps, went to Baker Hughes for its Reliable Pumping Solution for Combined Cycle Plants, a project demonstrating engineering excellence from design through to operation. One of the most prestigious accolades of the evening, Manufacturer of the Year, sponsored by WEG UK, was awarded to SPP Pumps, recognising its outstanding performance and industry leadership. Meanwhile, WEG UK was also celebrated as the winner of Supplier of the Year, sponsored by Wilo. The next generation of talent was recognised in the Rising Star Award, sponsored by Innomotics, with Luke Norris of John Crane UK taking the title. Reflecting on his achievement, Norris said: “It’s a huge honour to be recognised among such talented peers. This industry offers incredible opportunities, and I’m excited to be part of its future.” The Sustainable Contribution for a Better World Award, sponsored by AESSEAL, was presented to Apex Pumps, acknowledging its commitment to environmental responsibility and innovation. Another sponsor, Patrick Tantum, Group Director, UK & Ireland at Calpeda and Caprari, summed up the evening’s significance: “We are honoured to support the BPMA’s Pump Industry Awards programme, which continues to showcase the very best of innovation, engineering excellence, and collaboration across our sector. It was a pleasure to be part of the evening once again, bringing the industry together to recognise success, reconnect with peers, and highlight the strength of the community behind it. Not only does it celebrate achievement, but also sets the benchmark for standards, drive progress, and inspire the next phase of growth within our industry. We are proud to play our part in supporting that journey.”
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