The UK automotive supply chain is in better shape now than a year ago, according to a new survey conducted by SMMT.
Responding to a live poll at this week’s SMMT Open Forum event in Solihull, nearly three-quarters (73%) of respondents – representing a variety of organisations across the automotive sector – agreed that the domestic supply chain is more vibrant and established than it was a year ago.
The findings are a further endorsement of the continued recovery of the UK automotive supply chain. Automotive Council figures released in September revealed 41% of the average UK-built vehicle is now locally sourced – up from 36% in 2011. A forecast report released by SMMT earlier this week, meanwhile, identified a potential 28,000 new jobs to be created over the next five years.
While the rejuvenation of the supply chain is undeniable, access to finance remains an issue for many: some 41% of delegates reported having projects curtailed because the required funding was not available.
The evolution of the supply chain, as well as the opportunities presented by connected and autonomous vehicles, were key themes explored at the Open Forum event held this week at Cranmore Park in Solihull. A day of debate and networking for around 400 UK automotive supply chain delegates, the event featured talks from Mike Bell, Global Connected Car Director, Jaguar Land Rover; Iain Forbes, Head of government’s newly established Centre for Connected and Autonomous Vehicles; and Judith Richardson, Vice President of Purchasing, Nissan Europe.
The next SMMT Open Forum is set to take place at the inaugural Automechanika Birmingham in June 2016, the UK’s first trade show dedicated to automotive supply chain and aftermarket companies. Click through for more information on visiting and exhibiting at Automechanika Birmingham 2016.
