MHA report shows the most pressing issue in manufacturing for Wales is grid connections
Brian Garland · Posted on: July 8th 2025 · read
Brian Garland, a partner working closely with clients in Wales, shares his reflections on the latest manufacturing report.
Drawing from his extensive industry knowledge, he offers valuable insight into the unique challenges and opportunities facing manufacturers across the region and beyond.
A positive and holistic view
Brian views the report positively. Many manufacturers focus narrowly on their own companies or industries, but this report provides a broader overview of key issues affecting manufacturing across the UK. This wider perspective can help businesses understand the market better and plan accordingly.
Unexpected regional concerns
While Brian was not surprised by most findings, he found some regional details notable. For example, the emphasis on supply chain issues in Wales surprised him.
His experience suggests this is not always the primary concern for local manufacturers, yet the data shows it is significant for many. Brian expected taxation, rising costs and persistent skills shortages to feature more prominently.
The skills shortage is a frequent issue Brian encounters. Some clients in rural West Wales recruit skilled welders from overseas, including India, reflecting a broader trend where companies look beyond local labour markets.
The challenge of skills and experience
Brian highlights the skills shortage as partly a legacy of changes in the industrial landscape. Historically, large employers like Tata Steel trained many workers who later joined smaller manufacturers. Since downsizing at these firms, a skilled labour gap emerged. He also notes inconsistencies in apprenticeships and training programmes have worsened the shortage.
Additionally, Brian observes a mismatch between qualifications and practical experience. While many young people hold degrees, they often lack hands-on workplace skills manufacturing requires. Fewer young people enter manual roles, which are physically demanding and less attractive.
While many young people hold degrees, they often lack hands-on workplace skills manufacturing requires.
A strong regional manufacturing base
Reflecting on Wales’ industrial heritage, Brian points to towns like Merthyr Tydfil, once dominated by large manufacturers employing thousands, which have transformed. Today, Wales’ manufacturing is driven by smaller firms producing components and specialised products, often replacing larger companies of the past.
He stresses maintaining the skills base by supporting smaller manufacturers. Without skilled workers and viable businesses, Wales risks losing industrial expertise built over generations.
The SME focus and government support
Brian raises a critical point about government initiatives, feeling current policies often overlook small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the backbone of UK manufacturing. Many support programmes focus on large firms or specific sectors but do not address the unique needs of smaller manufacturers.
He suggests more tailored consideration is needed to understand how policies affect SMEs with fewer employees and simpler structures. Greater attention to this segment would better support the manufacturing base overall.
...more tailored consideration is needed to understand how policies affect SMEs with fewer employees and simpler structures
Future proofing through technology and energy
Looking ahead, Brian stresses the importance of future proofing businesses through embracing new technology. He highlights artificial intelligence and automation as key areas for manufacturers to explore, especially amid skills shortages. However, investing in advanced machinery can be costly, and funding remains a challenge.
Securing reliable energy supplies is another priority Brian emphasises. Consistent and affordable power is crucial for manufacturers to maintain operations and pursue growth. Energy security must be central to any future strategy.
A hopeful outlook with cautious optimism
"In closing, Brian recognises a positive tone in the report regarding government recognition of manufacturing’s importance. He welcomes the idea of a national blueprint to support the sector’s future but cautions against initiatives that amount to lip service. He hopes new strategies will translate into meaningful action to sustain and strengthen manufacturing across Wales and the UK."
