Photo: Pavel Danilyuk on pexels.comAs the UK manufacturing sector looks ahead to 2026, the focus is shifting from reactive adaptation to proactive strategy. The past year has seen the continued rise of integrated technologies such as digital twins and generative artificial intelligence (AI), but the coming months will demand more than just technological adoption. Manufacturers must now address evolving customer expectations, reinforce supply chains, and embed resilience into every layer of their operations.
Supply chain resilience is likely to be one of the defining themes of the New Year. The reshoring trend, which gained momentum in 2025, saw
over half of UK manufacturers bringing production closer to home to mitigate the risks posed by international politics and logistical disruptions. While reshoring will continue, the approach is becoming more nuanced.
There is no doubt that manufacturers are increasingly distributing production across domestic and international sites to balance agility with efficiency. David White, operations manager at
custom cable assemblies manufacturer GTK UK Ltd, said: “At GTK, sharing production between the UK, Romania and the Far East has helped us stay agile and meet customer demands even when traditional shipping lanes might’ve been compromised.”
Investment in cybersecurityCybersecurity is another area where investment is accelerating. The manufacturing sector has become a prime target for cyber-attacks, with legacy operational technology (OT) systems often presenting vulnerabilities. The recent attack on Jaguar Land Rover, which halted production from late August until 8 October and cost an
estimated £50 million per week, served as a stark reminder of the risks.
Mr White added: “Manufacturing faces a particular vulnerability in comparison to other industries, given that most companies in this sector are currently undergoing a process of digitalisation. In the majority of instances, this means some legacy operational technology (OT) may still be being used, which is likely critical to operations but not as secure as newer systems. So, expect to see heavy investment in more resilient OT and IT systems.”
Beyond infrastructure upgrades, manufacturers are recognising the importance of cultivating a cyber-aware culture. Secure remote access, visibility across all systems, and regular staff training are becoming standard practice. Leading firms are also implementing simulated phishing attacks to ensure employees remain vigilant.
Strategic AI adoptionAI is no longer viewed as experimental. In 2026, manufacturers will be adopting AI with purpose and precision, integrating it across operations to drive efficiency and growth. From predictive maintenance on the factory floor to supplier risk analysis, AI is being used to streamline decision-making and reduce downtime. According to data from Xometry,
82% of executives now regard AI as a core growth driver, reflecting its growing strategic importance.
Customer expectations are evolving just as rapidly. The rise of e-commerce has led to increased demand for shorter lead times and greater product customisation, both in B2B and B2C markets. AI is helping manufacturers meet these demands, but technology alone isn’t enough. A
2024 report from Deloitte highlighted the growing importance of digital tools that provide real-time manufacturing insights to customers. These tools are becoming essential, as customers now expect more than just estimated delivery dates—they want live updates on the status of their orders.
Manufacturers that involve customers early in the design process and offer collaborative development options will be best positioned to succeed. Personalisation is no longer a luxury; it is a competitive necessity.
Sustainable manufacturing will gain tractionMeanwhile, sustainability continues to gain momentum, with manufacturers showing strong intent to invest in green technologies. A recent report from Make UK, released in October, found that
83% of manufacturers are ‘very likely’ or ‘fairly likely’ to adopt green technologies over the next five years. Renewable energy is the top priority, with half of respondents identifying it as the most important area for investment.
Mr White continued: “However, there are barriers to progress in this area, with manufacturers citing a range of blockers to investing in green technology. In order to sustain this trend over a longer period of time, the government must provide a long-term solution to barriers such as the cost of energy and rising tax burdens.”
The Government’s Industrial Strategy has acknowledged these challenges and their potential impact on national net zero targets. However, manufacturers are still waiting for concrete support measures that will enable them to invest confidently in sustainable technologies.
As 2026 approaches, the message is clear — manufacturers must be strategic, resilient, and customer-focused. Whether it’s reinforcing supply chains, securing digital infrastructure, embracing AI, or committing to sustainability, the coming year will reward those who are prepared to adapt and innovate.