The recent news of a contraction in UK manufacturing output during the first quarter of 2025 has sent ripples of concern throughout the sector. A reported one percent fall in output, coupled with a significant seven percent drop in UK orders, has added fuel to anxieties around the industry’s performance. With fears of a global trade war and rising taxes impacting confidence, these developments are undoubtedly alarming for many. However, amidst these headwinds, Midland Deburr & Finish Ltd. is a testament to the resilience of UK manufacturing, reporting a notably busy start to the year, defying the broader contraction narrative.
As a key player in the subcontract finishing industry with over 25 years of experience, Midland Deburr & Finish has maintained its momentum, serving a diverse range of customers across sectors including automotive, aerospace, Formula One, and general engineering. The company’s ongoing investment in innovation, quality, and capacity has not only enabled it to weather economic turbulence but to continue thriving in the face of it.
“The challenges facing UK manufacturing are real, but they are not universal,” says Chris Arrowsmith, Managing Director of Midland Deburr & Finish. “Confidence may be brittle, but our firm, along with many of our customers, is in a strong position. We’ve been busy meeting the growing demand for essential services like metal degreasing, solvent degreasing, vapour degreasing, and vibratory deburring, all of which are key to high-quality manufacturing processes. Our customers know they can rely on us for precision and efficiency, no matter the economic landscape.”
Despite broader concerns, Midland Deburr & Finish continues to meet the increasing demand for surface improvement solutions. Their capabilities span across key finishing processes, including metal degreasing – an essential step in the preparation of components for subsequent stages of manufacturing. The firm’s solvent degreasing and vapour degreasing services, using cutting-edge, hermetically sealed machines and environmentally compliant Perchloroethylene, ensure efficient, responsible cleaning of both ferrous and non-ferrous parts.
Arrowsmith further explains: “In a time when environmental responsibility is more important than ever, our solvent and vapour degreasing services offer our clients a competitive edge. Not only do they ensure the highest standards of cleaning, but they are also sustainable and cost-effective solutions, ensuring that we support not just our customers, but the UK manufacturing sector as a whole.”
The firm’s expertise is also evident in their vibratory deburring and vibratory tumbling services, which have become integral to the UK manufacturing sector. These processes are crucial for producing smooth, consistent finishes and for preparing components for further manufacturing stages, particularly for those requiring large quantities of small parts. As demand for these services continues to grow, Midland Deburr & Finish is proving that precision, consistency, and quality are still top priorities for UK manufacturers.
“The key to success in the current climate is building strong, dependable partnerships,” adds Arrowsmith. “Our customers appreciate the benefits of working with a UK-based specialist. By reducing transportation costs, shortening lead times, and guaranteeing unwavering quality, we’re not just providing services – we’re strengthening the whole supply chain.”
While UK manufacturing may be facing its share of challenges, Midland Deburr & Finish is a good example of a business adapting amidst adversity. By prioritising quality, service and strong domestic partnerships, they continue to provide essential services that support a wide range of industries. Their commitment to metal degreasing, solvent degreasing, vapour degreasing, vibratory deburring, and vibratory tumbling ensures that their customers have the tools they need to maintain the competitive edge in an ever-evolving market.
“The contraction in UK manufacturing is only part of the picture,” Arrowsmith concludes. “There are many of us in the sector who are pushing forward with resilience, and our success stories – driven by innovation and quality – show that the UK manufacturing industry remains strong and full of potential.”