Research and analysis

The changing value and structure of the UK manufacturing sector

A study of the manufacturing sector using UK and international analytical evidence and practices, academic literature and global policy experience.

• From: Department for Business and Trade
• Published: 26 February 2026

Documents

The changing value and structure of the UK manufacturing sector

PDF, 4.16 MB, 136 pages

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Details

The study addresses 4 key policy questions:

• how can we measure the direct and indirect value of manufacturing in the economy?
• what is the changing role of services in manufacturing, and how does the UK compare internationally?
• how can we define and quantify advanced manufacturing?
• how can we define and identify emerging sectors within advanced manufacturing?

It offers analytical frameworks and methodological approaches alongside quantitative estimations and international comparisons.

Published 26 February 2026