S04E02 | The State of UK Manufacturing: Stephen Morley’s Unfiltered Take

Episode Summary:

In Episode 2 of Season 4, we sit down with Stephen Morley, President of the Confederation of British Metalforming, to get his unfiltered take on the current state of UK manufacturing.

Stephen has spent decades on the inside of the industry, working directly with companies across the country and lobbying for change at the highest levels. He’s honest, experienced, and not afraid to call out what’s not working and give his frank opinions on what is!

In this episode, we explore:

• Why the UK is still struggling to compete globally in manufacturing
• The policy and investment gaps that are holding the sector back
• How trade associations like CBM are pushing for real change
• What we can learn from other industrial models like Germany’s Mittelstand
• The future of skills, sustainability, and government support
• Why the time for nice words is over and action is overdue

If you care about the future of UK manufacturing or want to hear what industry leaders are really thinking behind the scenes, this is the one to listen to.

Key Topics:

• The reality of running and supporting UK manufacturing today
• Why the UK’s industrial strategy feels stuck
• What’s missing in policy, investment, and long-term planning
• Sustainability goals vs business pressures
• Skills and succession across the manufacturing workforce
• What trade bodies can and can't do in a changing climate
• Export struggles, energy costs, and global competitiveness
• How the UK can rebuild respect and resilience in its industrial base

Sponsors:

SteelBuy is a digital marketplace built for the metals industry, helping buyers and sellers connect with speed, transparency, and simplicity.

NERO Pipeline Connections is a trusted UK stockholder of stainless steel valves, fittings, and pipeline products, supporting industries from process to precision.

Comton Group Ltd. is a specialist recruiter for the metal, engineering, and manufacturing sectors, helping businesses hire the right people from shop floor to senior leadership.

About The Metal Guys Talk Business

Hosted by Peter Comerford and Mike Bolton, The Metal Guys Talk Business is a podcast for professionals in the metal, engineering, and manufacturing sectors. Each episode explores the challenges, changes, and big ideas shaping the industry from the shop floor to boardroom.

Connect with the Hosts and Guest(s):

Peter Comerford – Connect on LinkedIn
Mike Bolton – Connect on LinkedIn
Stephen Morley – Connect on LinkedIn