Project Reports
Max headroom: making time and space for Welsh manufacturing SMEs to flourish.
Authors:
- David Pickernell
- Nick Rich
- Gareth Davies
- Annette Roberts
- Pouya Sarvghad Moghadam
- Gary Walpole
- Alan Price
Abstract
The Welsh manufacturing sector has undergone significant change over the last decade, with new technologies, greater promotion of the circular economy by policymakers, and a competitive environment affected by Brexit, covid and energy price rises, all impacting the business landscape. Consequently, Welsh manufacturing businesses, the vast majority of which are micro, small, or medium-sized enterprises, face issues concerning supply chains, training and skills, innovation, finance, infrastructure, and sustainability. This report summarises a recent study conducted by Swansea University, on behalf of the Federation of Small Businesses (Pickernell et al 2023). The research investigated the issues faced by Welsh small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and identified short-term problems with energy and infrastructure, and difficulties recruiting sufficientqualified staff, as well as a lack of Welsh-based suppliers for many of the resources Welsh SMEs required. The research also highlighted the gap between short-term pressures and long-term vision, but that bridging that gap would allow Welsh manufacturing businesses to place themselves on a more resilient footing, build skills and employment and prepare for future opportunities.
- Year: 2024
- Volume: 29
- Page/Article: 17-28
- DOI: 10.18573/wer.268
- Published on 20 Mar 2024
- Peer Reviewed