“Reshore UK” scheme launched
31 Jan 2014
The Government has launched a new “one-stop-shop” service to help manufacturing firms return production lines back to the UK from overseas.
“Reshore UK” is a joint initiative between government bodies the Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS) and UK Trade and Industry (UKTI). Its launch follows Prime Minister David Cameron’s calls last week for Britain to become a “reshore nation” with the help of lower energy prices driven by shale oil & gas.
UKTI has identified 1,500 manufacturing jobs reshored in the UK since 2011 and a MAS survey shows companies citing costs, quality and reducing lead times as the top three reasons for moving production back to the UK.
British industry is coming home
Business Secretary Vince Cable
Reshore UK will provide a matching and location service, access to advice and support and a named individual to help each company.
MAS’s role is to help support small and medium sized businesses to be globally competitive, and to ensure there is capacity in the UK supply chain to take advantage of the reshoring opportunities. UKTI will use its global networks to attract foreign companies to invest.
By joining up the range of support available, Reshore UK will be accessible for both UK and international firms.
“British industry is coming home,” said Business Secretary Vince Cable.
“Over the last few months I have welcomed many companies who have taken manufacturing, textiles, call centre work or software abroad, bringing jobs back to the UK. This is a sign that diverse, high-quality British manufacturing is on the rise once again. It also highlights the ability of British-based business to stand strong in the face of global competition. The partnership between UKTI and MAS will further support British industry so they can continue to succeed. This builds on our long-term partnership with industry in key sectors like aerospace, automotive and oil and gas, which is giving business the confidence to invest in the UK and drive growth.”
