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Make UK/BDO annual survey highlights vital importance of industry to North West, but Covid impact hitting key sectors

A new report out today from Make UK, the manufacturers' organisation and accountancy and business advisory firm BDO LLP shows that manufacturing remains central to the success of the North West economy with the sector accounting for 15% of the region's economy, way above the national average.

The report also shows the extremely high reliance of the North West on the EU market for exports. As a result, Make UK has stressed the vital need to secure a trade deal with the EU before the end of the year. Failure to secure such a deal risks significant damage to prospects for industry in the North West.

According to the report, which analyses the overall status of industry in the region over the last twelve months, shows that, North West manufacturers have endured a tumultuous year. Brexit uncertainty compounded by Covid 19 has impacted sectors such as Automotive which were already experiencing significant downturns. On top of this, Covid 19 has also severely affected the Aerospace sector to which the North West is heavily exposed, dragging down the levels of both output and orders and leading to a downturn in both investment and recruitment.

Transport Equipment remains the biggest manufacturing sector in the North West accounting for 17.7%, while the Pharmaceutical and Chemicals sectors are also significant contributors to North West industry, accounting for just under a 3rd of regional output between them. Pharmaceuticals in particular is an especially strong performer and has benefited from the spike in demand due to Covid, and leading to the North West being the UK's most productive industrial region at 118% of the national average.

The North West also continues to be a strong export performer, accounting for almost 8.2% of total UK manufacturing exports. The EU continues to be the region's main export destination (51.3%) followed by Asia and North America. The last 12 months has also seen a notable expansion in exports to the Middle East and North Africa which now account for almost 10% of North West exports.

Commenting, June Smith, Director of Member Engagement for Make UK in the North, said:- "The report shows that industry continues to have a central role to play in the success of the North West economy. There are well documented challenges going forward, not least the major impact of Covid 19 and the global economic downturn, the results of which are likely to be felt for some time. Furthermore, the outcome of Brexit has the potential to have an impact on the future performance of manufacturers in the North West given the exposure to the EU as a major export market. If we are to avoid a double whammy hit on the sector it is essential that the UK agrees a trade deal before the end of the year that prevents barriers to trade."

Graham Ellis, Head of Manufacturing at BDO in the North West said:- "The region's manufacturers were already facing huge uncertainty over the UK's future trading relationships, even before the seismic shock of Covid-19. Many have stepped up to support the country at a time of crisis. But they now urgently require the Government to deliver a trade deal with the EU that protects their interests and allows them to plan; in addition to a longer term recovery package which encourages investment in skills, digital transformation and a greener future. As the furlough scheme begins to wind down, many of the region's manufacturers will face difficult decisions on jobs and investment, so it's vital that their pleas for support are heard loud and clear by policymakers both locally and nationally."

to find out more about Make UK, who represents 20,000 companies of all sizes, from start ups to multinationals, across:- engineering, manufacturing, technology and the wider industrial sector, please visit:- MakeUK.Org.

Royal Institution Opens Exclusive Doors To Welcome New Clients

LIVERPOOL'S historic Royal Institution has re-opened its doors in Colquitt Street to welcome everyone inside. Previously an exclusive, private members only bar, restaurant, meeting place and active social hub, the team will be opening this summer to welcome new guests as well as existing clients. New owner David Wood, who has over 25 years of experience in the industry, is leading the way with a decadent take on the end of prohibition; no membership required!

The Royal Institution will be celebrating its rich history, where it was established in 1817 by William Roscoe to be the beating heart of the City's rich intellectual and Artistic Community, but with an entirely contemporary and unique new flavour. Guests can enjoy the beautiful and sumptuous surroundings whilst sampling the venue's 1920's themed cocktail menu. The menu itself has its own story, as it takes clients from the end of prohibition to the introduction of the perfect cocktail mix. The chic Coco Chanel 75, bitter yet sweet Al Capone Fizz, refreshing Benjamin 'Bugsy' Siegel and the gentle-but-heady Kathryn Kelly are all part of a menu steeped in tradition, fun, and modern splendour, all served with a stylish twist.

For the moment, the Royal Institution will be operating within Government guidelines, with appropriate and rigorous safety measures in place, so that guests can enjoy their surroundings, and their facilities, in comfort. However, the team are already planning, and looking forward to, their official launch, when it is deemed safe to go ahead.

The future for the Royal Institution is already exciting, individual, and with a luxurious edge. When guidelines permit, it will continue to be the perfect place for guests to meet, escape from, or embrace life; there's extra choice on the menu. From a simple morning coffee, to after-dark eclectic drinks, flowing champagne and signature cocktails, guests are met by a team providing the type of welcome and service expected in this formerly members-only enclave. A separate but not secluded alcohol store, the Royal Institute, will be on hand to provide its selected drinks and premium collectors' items, initially to be purchased on site, and in future also through website point of sale.

The Royal Institution has thought of everything, and in July 2020 they want to invite everyone to connect so that they can enjoy some of the varied benefits and upbeat details normally reserved for members. Hayley Cartwight, Operations Director says:- "The Royal Institution is truly 1 of Liverpool's hidden gems. The architectural grandeur of the venue is stunning, and we are truly delighted to be opening our doors to the general public."

Whilst the Royal Institution will be celebrating in style with reduced hours and appropriate social distancing, its aim is to embrace everyone with a taste of things to come, in the cultural heart of a City which appreciates both a nod to its proud legacies, and its love of a stylish party!