Gone are the days when the UK was producing 40% of world manufacturing output. A recent study by the GMB union found that the British manufacturing sector has lost almost 600,000 jobs in a decade. By contrast, China has transformed itself into a production powerhouse. It is now the world’s largest manufacturer, its output totalling $2.0 trillion. Yet, toolmaker and moulding specialist Broanmain is utilising the best of both manufacturing worlds to help its customers meet tight production deadlines without compromising on quality.
Attracted by cut-price production and a huge, low-paid workforce, many UK firms outsourced their manufacturing to China. But not all are completely satisfied with the arrangement. Long lead times, expensive shipping costs, large orders requiring upfront payment, communication barriers and concerns over quality are just some issues reported. With Britain looking to create more homegrown employment in the face of Brexit, could there be an alternative that offers the best of east and west?
