‘Ease up on manufacturers’

By the Editorial Team · Friday, September 18, 2026

Manufacturers in the UK, represented by Make UK, have urged the government to reduce energy costs and moderate planned national living wage increases to alleviate hiring constraints. These measures are seen as crucial ahead of the upcoming budget to support the revival and expansion of the country's industrial sector.

Manufacturers in the United Kingdom have called on the government to ease cost pressures that they say are restricting their ability to hire new workers. Make UK, the industry association representing manufacturers, described the upcoming budget as a critical moment for the government’s plans to revive the country’s industrial sector.

The organisation stressed that high industrial energy costs are a significant factor undermining competitiveness in the sector. "Removing these barriers is essential for companies to invest, grow, and expand their workforce," said Stephen Phipson, chief executive of Make UK.

In addition to energy expenses, manufacturers urged the government to reconsider planned increases to the national living wage. The group recommended limiting wage growth to 3.7 percent and postponing the extension of the wage increase to include 18-year-old workers, warning that more substantial rises could further constrain hiring.

Make UK’s calls come ahead of the budget announcement next month, which is widely viewed by industry representatives as a pivotal test of the government’s commitment to its reindustrialisation agenda. Addressing cost challenges, particularly in energy and labour, will be key to fostering an environment that supports manufacturing sector recovery and growth.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.