Future Humber & Make UK Manufacturing Executive Roundtable Event (Invite Only)
Driving Growth in Humber: Addressing Challenges and Maximising Opportunities in Manufacturing
Future Humber and Make UK convened a private Executive Roundtable bringing together senior business leaders to explore the future of manufacturing in the Humber. The session provided a confidential, off-the-record environment for open discussion, enabling participants to share insights, challenges and opportunities facing the sector.
Attendees included representatives from Future Humber, Arco, AAK International, Catch, the University of Hull, Garthwest Ltd, Humber Freeport, Wold Top Brewery and Make UK. The roundtable was delighted to welcome the Rt Hon Robert Halfon, former Minister for Skills, Apprenticeships and Higher Education, who has recently been appointed Executive Director of Policy and External Affairs at Make UK.
Discussions focused on three key themes: the current challenges facing businesses, the opportunities for growth across Humber region, and the type of support required from Government to unlock investment and drive productivity.
Key issues raised included the significant pressures created by rising business costs, particularly raw materials, energy usage, safety requirements, grid connectivity and regulatory complexity. Participants highlighted the need for greater flexibility and faster Government decision-making, especially in relation to funding and “oven-ready” investment opportunities.
Skills and workforce development also formed a central part of the discussion. Delegates explored the strain on training providers, the limitations of large-scale apprenticeship programmes for SMEs, and the role of degree apprenticeships, T Levels, modular apprenticeships, lifelong learning programmes and skills bootcamps in meeting current and future needs.
The roundtable concluded with a shared commitment to continued collaboration between industry, education and Government to ensure Humber remains a competitive and attractive location for manufacturing investment.
The event was kindly hosted by Arco.
