The UK Metals Council has launched its State of the Metals Industry in the UK 2025/2026 report, a comprehensive snapshot of the challenges and opportunities facing one of the country’s most critical industrial sectors.

The report captures the views from across the supply chain and highlights key themes around skills, energy costs, trade, and the future of the UK’s industrial strategy.

Skills and Labour Shortages

Skills shortages remain the top concern, with over 80% of companies reporting they are recruiting from a limited pool of qualified candidates. More than half (58%) say they struggle to attract new workers, with many pointing to the Apprenticeship Levy as a barrier rather than a support.

Energy Pressures

Energy costs remain a critical issue. Almost 60% of firms back a unified energy pricing mechanism across UK foundation industries, and many are investing in energy efficiency, renewables, or contract renegotiation to cope with volatility.

Call for Minister for Manufacturing

One of the strongest findings is the call for government to create a dedicated Minister for Manufacturing. Nearly half of respondents (45%) ranked this as a top priority, alongside more than 63% who want to see a cross-sector Industrial Strategy reintroduced.

Rachel Eade MBE, Chair of the UK Metals Council, said:

“Our industry is clear: we need political leadership at the highest level that understands manufacturing and is prepared to fight for it. This report sets out six urgent asks to government, including action on energy pricing, apprenticeships, and Net Zero clarity. The launch is the start of our renewed push to make sure these voices are heard.”

Six Key Asks

The report outlines six main recommendations for government:

1. A cross-sector Industrial Strategy.
2. Reform of the Apprenticeship Levy.
3. Energy stability and fair pricing.
4. Clearer Net Zero targets and guidance.
5. Simplification of post-Brexit paperwork, including CBAM compliance.
6. Appointment of a Minister for Manufacturing.

A resilient sector

Despite economic uncertainty, nearly 44% of metals companies remain positive about growth over the next 12 months, showing resilience and determination to invest in people, skills, and innovation.

The launch event was on 10th September at the UK Metals Expo in Birmingham and feature a high-profile panel debate with industry leaders. BMRA's Antonia Grey at on the launch panel.

The UK Metals Council represents 13 trade associations, one of which is the BMRA, across the full metals supply chain, speaking for more than 11,500 companies and over one million employees.