Decision makers surveyed
Our research draws on insights from over 1,000 senior leaders across UK manufacturing, providing a comprehensive view of sector priorities.
Lenders and investors consulted
We engaged with more than 100 lenders and investors to understand funding perspectives and capital deployment trends.
Redefining Resilience: What Boards Must Prioritise for 2026
Discover the latest UK manufacturing trends shaping 2026. This report reveals how manufacturers are redefining resilience, shifting from pure financial strength to operational agility, digital transformation, and sustainability. Boards are prioritising ESG, supply chain reliability, and skills, while lenders focus on working capital and performance. Despite funding challenges, optimism remains high, with nearly 70% of leaders confident about the future. The most successful organisations will be those that invest in technology, talent, and robust execution to navigate disruption and seize new opportunities.
Demand, Margin & Orders
Order books remain sensitive to geopolitical shifts and supply chain disruption. 25% of boards cite trade changes and 24% highlight supply chain delays, driving renewed focus on operational flexibility.
Cost, Cashflow & Capital
44% of lenders identify working capital stress as the top risk. Boards focus on structural issues, while lenders monitor liquidity and margin erosion.
People & leadership
Leadership capability and workforce resilience are under scrutiny. 37% of lenders track staff turnover as a warning sign, while 40% of boards plan investment in skills and succession.
Investment & Digital
Automation and digital investment is accelerating. 29% of manufacturers have committed capital to new technology or R&D, with many reporting transformational impact.
Sustainability & ESG
ESG and regulatory requirements dominate board agendas. 26% of decision makers cite new obligations as a trigger for action, driving energy efficiency and supply chain transparency.
Correlation between board action and outcome: Only 28% of strategic decisions fully deliver intended results
While boards tackle complex, long-term challenges, lenders focus on financial resilience, making expert guidance essential. Strikingly, 79% of reactive decisions succeed, but only 28% of major strategies deliver fully. Discover how decisive actions; M&A, cost reviews, leadership changes can bridge ambition and results for your business.
Funding access remains a critical constraint
Nearly every manufacturer surveyed reported difficulties accessing funding, with 26% experiencing significant operational impact. Despite government support and new industrial strategy commitments, tightening lender appetite and internal performance concerns continue to restrict capital flows. The implication: only businesses demonstrating robust governance and clear execution capability are likely to secure funding on favourable terms.
Case study: SST Group
Boardroom in Action: Navigating Volatility
Explore how SST Group is redefining resilience in UK manufacturing. CEO Richard Bradley shares how the company has stabilized supply chains, bridged funding gaps, and invested in digital transformation to drive operational excellence. Facing a shrinking pool of skilled talent, SST’s apprenticeship initiatives and ESG leadership set a new benchmark for sustainable growth.
Meet our Manufacturing experts
Meet FRP Partners, Allan Kelly, Raj Mittal, Alex Hilton-Baird and Matt Whitchurch. With expertise supporting manufacturers, and helping clients navigate regulatory shifts, supply chain complexity, and evolving sustainability demands. Their practical guidance empowers organisations to strengthen leadership, boost operational resilience, and convert strategic ambition into action for long-term success.
