A new report released today reveals that manufacturers in Yorkshire & the Humber have experienced the highest increase in output among all English regions and devolved nations over the past decade. Additionally, they have shown the best recovery in output since the onset of the pandemic.
According to the Make UK/BDO Annual Regional Manufacturing Outlook report, output in the region has surged by 40% since 2013, with 2023 output surpassing pre-pandemic levels by 17%, the highest in the UK. The manufacturing sector in Yorkshire & the Humber contributes nearly 15% to the region’s total output, significantly exceeding the national average, and supports 287,000 highly skilled jobs, making up 10% of the region’s workforce.
Three key sectors dominate manufacturing production in the region, with the Chemicals sector leading at 17.5% of industrial output, followed closely by the Food and Drink sector at 17.4% and Metal Products (primarily steel) at 14.1%.
In 2023, Yorkshire & The Humber accounted for 5% of the UK’s total goods exports, with the EU as the primary destination at 56%, showcasing a high dependency level compared to other regions. This is followed by the United States at 16% and Asia & Oceania at 12%.
Dawn Huntrod, Region Director for Make UK in the North, emphasized the critical role of the manufacturing industry in driving economic growth by providing high-value, high-skill jobs. She called for a comprehensive, long-term industrial strategy to address the skills crisis and unleash the full potential of businesses in the UK.
Steve Talbot, Head of Manufacturing at BDO in Yorkshire, highlighted the resilience of manufacturers in the region amidst external shocks and policy shifts. He noted the opportunity for collaboration with the government to develop a strategic industrial plan that would stimulate investment, boost manufacturing output, and create more skilled job opportunities essential for the regional economy.
