A major new initiative has been launched to ensure the voices of Britain's small and medium-sized manufacturers and engineers are finally heard at the highest levels of government. The newly established Policy Centre for Supply Chain and SMEs aims to become the powerful, unified voice for an estimated 325,000 SMEs that form the backbone of the UK's industrial base.
A Unified Voice for a Critical Sector
For too long, the experiences and insights of these vital businesses have been overlooked in national policy discussions. The Policy Centre, powered by the skills organisation Enginuity, will act as an independent mediator. Its core mission is to bring together industry leaders, sector bodies, and policymakers to collaborate on priorities that drive growth and build a more resilient supply chain.
Ann Watson, CEO of Enginuity, emphasised the urgency of this new centre. She stated that while SMEs are the lifeblood of the UK economy, their individual voices often lack unification and clarity, making them difficult for policymakers to engage with effectively.
Driving Tangible Change for British Industry
The Centre will function as both a constructive ally and a critical friend to the UK Government. Its work will focus on advocating for policies and skills development that reflect the real-world needs of SMEs. The ultimate goal is to help create a thriving, resilient industrial base that can underpin the UK's long-term growth ambitions.
Through direct advocacy, campaigns, and engagement, the Centre will provide SMEs with new opportunities to influence decision-makers. It will also offer clear guidance to help businesses navigate policy changes and contribute to an evidence-led dialogue about the future of the sector.
Industry and Political Support
The launch has been welcomed by figures across industry and politics. Mike Reader, Labour MP for Northampton South, praised the initiative, noting that SMEs often lack a seat at the top table and that the Policy Centre will provide a crucial route for them to engage with government.
Andrea Wilson, Managing Director of Hone-All Precision Ltd, echoed this sentiment, stating that for over 30 years, the needs of manufacturing SMEs have not been heard, leading to a skills system that doesn't serve them and a regulatory environment that stifles potential.
Dr Florian Kamelger, CEO of Cosworth, highlighted the need for a focused direct line to Government to address pressing concerns, particularly around skills, a need the new Centre is designed to meet.
The Policy Centre represents a pivotal moment for UK manufacturing and engineering, promising to ensure that the perspectives of its most numerous and vital businesses finally shape the future of British industry.
