Midland Deburr & Finish Calls for Bold Approach Amid UK Manufacturing Confidence Drop

Midland Deburr & Finish is calling on the UK’s manufacturing sector to remain bullish and proactive, despite a recent dip in confidence both domestically and across the eurozone. Chris Arrowsmith, Managing Director of the Lye-based company, believes that manufacturers have a crucial role to play in leading the nation’s economy forward. His message is clear: firms should prioritise UK manufacturing, favour domestic procurement, and revisit the trend of re-shoring, which has gained momentum in recent years.

In October 2024, confidence in UK manufacturing dropped to a nine-month low, echoing the sharp decline seen in March 2020 at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. This came despite factory output continuing to rise for the fifth consecutive month, highlighting that production levels remain robust, even amid rising uncertainty. Meanwhile, the eurozone's manufacturing sector experienced a deeper contraction. In September 2024, the eurozone’s Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) fell from 45.8 in August to 45.0, with Germany witnessing declines in output, new orders, employment, and stocks.

Arrowsmith, however, believes this downturn presents an opportunity for UK manufacturers to reassert their leadership in global supply chains. He sees processes such as metal degreasing, vibratory deburring, and solvent degreasing—core services provided by Midland Deburr & Finish—as pivotal to maintaining the quality and competitiveness of UK manufacturing. "Manufacturers need to stand tall and lead the economy forward," Arrowsmith said. "The key is to support domestic manufacturing through practices like metal and vapour degreasing, ensuring our production processes remain world-class and attractive to global markets."

As specialists in vibratory deburring and degreasing techniques, Midland Deburr & Finish plays a critical role in precision engineering, ensuring that components meet the highest standards of cleanliness and surface finish. These processes are fundamental to industries such as aerospace and automotive, where the precision of every part is essential. Arrowsmith believes that by favouring these domestic capabilities, UK manufacturers can drive growth, maintain resilience, and continue to innovate, even in the face of wider economic challenges.

He is also keen to stress the importance of returning to re-shoring strategies, which have gained traction in recent years. "By prioritising re-shoring, we can reduce our reliance on overseas suppliers and strengthen UK supply chains," Arrowsmith noted. "Processes like solvent degreasing and vibratory deburring are key to maintaining high standards and reducing the need for imports. Re-shoring gives us control over quality and helps future-proof our manufacturing capabilities."

Despite the challenges posed by the drop in confidence, Arrowsmith remains optimistic about the future of UK manufacturing. He points to the strength of the sector’s core processes—such as vapour degreasing, metal degreasing, and precision deburring—as evidence of its resilience. These are essential techniques for ensuring product quality and extending component life, particularly in demanding industries.

Arrowsmith's message is one of resilience and growth. He is confident that with the right focus on domestic procurement and re-shoring, UK manufacturers can weather the storm and emerge stronger. "We’ve shown resilience before, particularly in the aftermath of the pandemic, and we can do so again," he said. "UK manufacturing has the skills, the innovation, and the drive to lead the way. Let’s focus on growth, invest in the future, and ensure that we continue to be a key player on the global stage."

Midland Deburr & Finish remains committed to supporting the UK’s manufacturing sector through its expertise in processes like vibratory and solvent degreasing, as well as vibratory deburring. By prioritising these essential services, Arrowsmith believes the industry can overcome current challenges and secure a path to growth, ensuring the UK continues to be a leading force in global manufacturing.