UK supply chain must evolve to seize battery opportunities

In the small industrious town of Lye in the heart of the West Midlands, a family run manufacturer is quietly reshaping its identity to meet the needs of an industry on the cusp of revolution – the battery technology sector. Midland Deburr & Finish, under the insightful leadership of Managing Director Chris Arrowsmith, finds itself at the crossroads of tradition and innovation, navigating a landscape that demands a swift and dynamic evolution in the UK manufacturing supply chain.

In recent months, Midland Deburr & Finish has witnessed a surge in orders, specifically for the deburring and solvent degreasing of battery trays. The uptake in demand is not merely coincidental; rather, it reflects a larger trend in the manufacturing sector as the world pivots towards greener and more sustainable energy solutions, despite the demise of British Volt and Volta Trucks. It comes a few days after The UK government published its first ever Battery Strategy, communicating how it intends to support the growth of a domestic battery industry by 2030.

Speaking about the recent surge in orders and the evolving needs of the industry, Managing Director Chris Arrowsmith emphasises the critical juncture at which the UK manufacturing supply chain currently stands. He states, "We are witnessing a profound shift in the dynamics of manufacturing, and the growing demand for battery technology is at the forefront of this change. As a nation, we must recognise the urgency to adapt and cater to the needs of this burgeoning industry."

Arrowsmith further notes that while the orders are indicative of the potential within the UK, there is still a noticeable gap in the readiness of suppliers to fully embrace the rapid growth of the battery technology sector. UK manufacturers have echoed similar sentiments, expressing their frustration at the hesitancy of some suppliers to align with the evolving demands of the market.

"The feedback from our clients is clear – there's a sense of urgency, a need for suppliers to not just catch up but to lead in accommodating the requirements of the battery technology industry. If we fail to do so swiftly, we risk losing this opportunity to offshore competitors which would be a huge loss to the UK," warns Arrowsmith.

The battery technology industry is a linchpin in the global push toward renewable energy and electric mobility. As the world transitions away from traditional fuel sources, the demand for efficient and sustainable energy storage solutions has never been higher. This presents a golden opportunity for UK manufacturers to position themselves as key players in the supply chain, contributing not only to the national economy but also to the global fight against climate change.

Arrowsmith advocates for a proactive approach, emphasising the need for collaboration and innovation within the UK manufacturing sector. "We cannot afford to be complacent. The time is now for manufacturers, suppliers, and policymakers to come together, understand the unique needs of the battery technology industry, and collectively drive the necessary changes in our supply chain which is why we embrace the recent government strategy around Battery Strategy; however the last thing the sector needs is another slogan; but substance and penetrative support throughout the supply chain"

Midland Deburr & Finish's journey reflects the broader narrative of the UK manufacturing sector at a pivotal moment. The call for evolution is not just a strategic move for individual companies but a collective responsibility to position the nation as a leader in the rapidly expanding battery technology industry. As Managing Director Chris Arrowsmith aptly puts it, "We must act swiftly and decisively, for the opportunities of today are the history of tomorrow – and we cannot afford to let them slip away."