"Collaboration is key": Corrosion Resistant Materials MD Joins Backing Britain Pledge
Backing Britain is back. Made in Group is urging the UK government to debate and act upon: addressing concerns related to safeguarding manufacturing capacity, addressing concerns related to ownership of British businesses and appointing a Minister for manufacturing.
After the recent general election, the Backing Britain Campaign aims to present both the challenges and opportunities in the manufacturing sector to the new government. By amplifying the voices of the business leaders most affected, the campaign seeks to educate top-level officials about the changes that SMEs in manufacturing want to see.
CRM’s Adam Bradley: A Champion for Backing Britain in Manufacturing
In a compelling interview, Adam Bradley, Managing Director of Corrosion Resistant Materials (CRM), underscores the crucial role of British manufacturing in bolstering the UK economy. Speaking with Sam Sleight of Made in Yorkshire, Adam reflected on his extensive experience and passion for the industry, outlining how CRM supports the sector, the opportunities that are forthcoming and the prominent challenges that need to be addressed.
CRM is a pivotal player in the supply of critical materials such as nickel, stainless steel, duplex, aluminium, and titanium to various industries, including oil and gas, aerospace, defence, automotive, and renewables. In addition to being a raw material supplier, CRM also offers value-added services like heat treatments and machining, ensuring high-quality and ready-to-use materials for manufacturers.
"With the right support and investment, the UK can become a global leader"
The long term prosperity and security of the UK is, without doubt, dependent on the success and the health of the manufacturing industry. When thinking ahead and discussing what the future looks like, Adam emphasised the fact that there will be emerging opportunities within the UK manufacturing sector. Referencing renewable energy, nuclear energy, electric vehicles, defence, and infrastructure projects, "these sectors present immense growth opportunities," Adam asserted. "With the right support and investment, the UK can become a global leader in these areas."
Despite the optimism, Mr Bradley does acknowledge several challenges that hinder the sector’s growth. One of the key ones directly affecting CRM and many other stockholders, processors and fabricators being the availability of raw materials. Adam explained how this remains a pressing issue, exacerbated by outdated steel production facilities in the UK. "Our steel production capabilities need modernisation to meet current and future demands," he noted. Additionally, “there is a critical need for investment in skills and infrastructure to support and facilitate the sector’s growth”.
Reflecting back to pre-2020, Brexit certainly added another layer of complexity to the manufacturing landscape as well. During Adam’s interview with Made in Yorkshire, he stressed the difficulties in trading with Europe post-Brexit and highlighted the importance of self-sufficiency. "We need to reduce our reliance on imports and focus on strengthening our domestic manufacturing capabilities," he emphasised. This sentiment truly underpins the significance of the Backing Britain Campaign and why the support of business leaders like Adam is integral.
"Collaboration is key"
The MD at CRM is a staunch advocate for the Backing Britain campaign, which aims to foster collaboration among companies and secure government support to keep manufacturing projects within the UK. He passionately believes in the collective power of British manufacturers. "Collaboration is key", Adam insisted. "By working together, we can tackle large infrastructure projects and drive innovation in the sector."
A key proposal from the campaign is the appointment of a dedicated, apolitical Minister for Manufacturing. Adam argued that this role is essential for providing the focused support and advocacy the sector needs. "Having a dedicated Minister for Manufacturing would ensure that our industry’s concerns and opportunities are adequately represented at the highest levels of government," he explained.
"Government investment is crucial"
Whilst discussing priorities for industry and what a minister for manufacturing would help direct, Adam called for a coordinated approach to support the sector moving forward. The CRM spokesperson emphasised the need for funding in modernising facilities, training the workforce, and fostering innovation. "Government investment is crucial for unlocking the full potential of our manufacturing sector," he stated.
All things said and done, Adam remains optimistic about the future of UK manufacturing. He believes that with the right support and a united approach, the sector can thrive and contribute significantly to the economy. "The potential is immense," Bradley concludes. "It’s up to us to seize the opportunities and build a robust and resilient manufacturing industry."
In summary, Adam Bradley’s insights and advocacy for the Backing Britain campaign highlight the importance of supporting and investing in the UK manufacturing sector. His vision and passion serve as an inspiring call to action for industry leaders, policymakers, and the broader community to come together and champion the future of British manufacturing.
Made in Group is a trade organisation that helps elevate manufacturing businesses' online presence whilst giving them a platform to connect and share ideas. Dedicated to uniting British industry, the UK collective relies on its members to help them amplify their voice for manufacturing and showcase the critical role of industry leaders in shaping the nation's future.
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