Comment #2
The transport sector also led the way in export growth increasing by 7.4%, largely on the back of continued growth in aerospace, closely followed by food and drink which increased exports by 5.3%. By overall sector size, Food and Drink remains the single biggest sector contributing 15.1% of GVA, closely followed by transport (14.9%) and pharmaceuticals and chemicals (14.2%)
The analysis also smashes the myth that manufacturing jobs are solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, or short with the average salary in manufacturing 13% above the rest of the economy at £33,592, compared to £29,832 for the whole economy and way above the services sector at £29,014.
While the UK has a long history of proud manufacturing then next few short months could be as important as any for the future of the industry in this country. Our analysis makes clear the overwhelming importance of trade with our closest market and the need to avoid imposing any barriers which will make this more difficult.
*First published in PWE Magazine https://pwemag.co.uk/