29.07.2024 

Make UK’s annual analysis of the latest manufacturing facts and statistics is out now!  

The sector contributed £217bn in output to the economy last year, supporting 2.6m jobs. Firms are investing more too than in 2023, with £38.8bn worth of investment taking place. 

Like last year’s edition, ‘UK Manufacturing: The Facts 2024’ again reveals that manufacturing jobs are better paid than most, with average salaries rising by £2,281 to £38,769 this year. In comparison, salaries in services and the wider economy average at £34,698 and £35,404 respectively.  

The US remains our top export destination for manufactured goods, worth £61.8bn and up from £56.7bn last year, with Germany and the Netherlands rounding off the top three. In terms of imports, it’s Germany who we bought the most manufactured goods from, spending £73.8bn over 12 months. 

As for the regional picture, the North West of England remains the leading manufacturing area of the UK, with output worth £29.5bn, and is closely followed by the South East at £26.1bn.  

For a full breakdown of the facts and figures, including comparisons with other countries, sector-by-sector data, and R&D investment, read the fact card and report below!