New Voice for Britain's Manufacturing Backbone
A groundbreaking independent Policy Centre has been established to champion the interests of small and medium-sized enterprises in Britain's vital manufacturing and engineering sectors. Launched in November 2025, this initiative promises to transform how more than 325,000 SMEs engage with policymakers in Westminster.
For too long, these supply chain businesses - widely recognised as the backbone of the UK economy - have seen their experiences and insights overlooked in national policy discussions. The Policy Centre for Supply Chain and SME's aims to change this dynamic by acting as a powerful, unified voice for Britain's industrial foundation.
Bridging the Gap Between SMEs and Government
Powered by Enginuity, the former Sector Skills Council, the Centre will serve as an independent mediator bringing together industry leaders, sector bodies, policy organisations and government. Its mission is to ensure that the real-world challenges facing British manufacturers drive meaningful change at the highest level.
Ann Watson, CEO of Enginuity, emphasised the critical need for this initiative: "SMEs are the lifeblood of the UK economy, yet often fail to be heard by those making policy in key areas at the heart of government." She noted that while SMEs are huge in number, their individual voices often lack unification and clarity, making them difficult for policymakers to engage with effectively.
The Centre will work as both a constructive ally and critical friend to the UK Government, supporting efforts to future-proof British manufacturing and engineering. Through advocacy, campaigns and direct engagement, it will create new opportunities for SMEs to influence decision-makers and see their input translated into tangible outcomes.
Industry Leaders Welcome Game-Changing Initiative
The launch has received strong support from across the political and business spectrum. Mike Reader, Labour MP for Northampton South, welcomed the development, stating: "I'm so pleased to see the Policy Centre is being launched to give SMEs a voice in how we develop the skills agenda and opportunities within our industry."
Industry representatives echoed this sentiment. Viki Bell, Chief Executive of the Construction Equipment Association, noted: "The Policy Centre offers a welcome focus on the real pressures facing smaller manufacturers." She highlighted that skills and supply-chain challenges continue to affect many members, and having a clearer evidence base will help move national conversations in a more practical direction.
Andrea Wilson, Managing Director of Hone-All Precision Ltd, provided a stark assessment of the current situation: "For over 30 years, the needs of UK manufacturing SMEs have not been heard by Government." She emphasised that SMEs represent over 99% of all UK manufacturing companies and deserve a voice that challenges existing frameworks and drives positive change.
The Centre will focus on gathering robust data, conducting research and fostering honest dialogue to provide evidence-based recommendations. This approach aims to shape policies that strengthen SMEs and reinforce the UK supply chain, ensuring British manufacturing remains competitive and resilient in the global marketplace.
