Additive Manufacturing UK (AMUK) has published its third Annual Action Plan, which provides an in-depth analysis of the UK additive manufacturing (AM) sector. This includes updates on member-led initiatives, identifies key challenges facing the industry, and sets out a strategic path for the next 12 months. The plan also focuses on how AMUK can help turn the UK’s R&D strength into economic growth and sovereign capability while establishing the UK as a world leader in the development, adoption and application of 3-D printing and AM technology.
Without doubt, AM has enormous potential to transform the way parts and products are designed and produced. This is the core reason why AMUK supports its members and the wider UK industry across the entire AM value chain, whilst also educating potential users about the opportunities this technology offers. The additive manufacturing industry delivers many benefits, such as reduced material waste, greater efficiency and lower production costs for small-batch manufacturing. This reduces the environmental impact of manufacturing, making parts and products more sustainable.
AM has already had a significant impact on high-value manufacturing sectors, including aerospace, space, automotive (including motorsport), energy generation equipment, defence, rail, marine, consumer goods (sport, leisure, jewellery), general industrial products, health, pharmaceuticals and medical equipment.
Top three challengesHead of AMUK Joshua Dugdale said: “Our plan highlights challenges that we must address in order to accelerate the adoption of AM technologies. Together with our members, we have identified supply chain, skills and standards as the top three challenges, which we will tackle during this year, as these are crucial areas impacting the AM industry.”
The global AM market grew to $21.9 billion in 2024, but despite this global growth, the value of the UK’s own market contracted, with its global share falling by approximately 4%. Last year's figures are not available yet, but they are expected to be about the same, with AMUK members reporting tough trading conditions.
However, the market is showing some signs of recovery in the early part of 2026, which is why AMUK is determined to provide its members with an opportunity to achieve their portion of the UK’s potential of capturing a 7% market share, which could be valued at nearly $5 billion by 2030.
The
AMUK Annual Action Plan provides a valuable roadmap for the development and growth of AM in the UK. With a focus on collaboration, innovation and investment, the UK could become a leading innovator in this rapidly evolving field.