Feature

Forget cost cutting, 2026 is the year of growth

The manufacturing industry stands at a critical juncture. Faced with a raft of challenges – from rising labour and energy costs to constantly fluctuating global dynamics – the sector is nonetheless entering the year ahead with a feeling of optimism, resilience, and, most importantly, a determined spirit of innovation.

02/02/2026 11:12:42

So, what trends are set to shape 2026? Let’s delve into the key findings from Make UK and PwC’s latest Executive Survey…

Cybersecurity
As explored in my November 2025 column, the past year has thrown the vulnerability of complex supply chains into sharp relief, with the cyber attack on JLR disrupting operations for over 5,000 businesses and sending shock waves through UK industry.

In this climate, cybersecurity is non-negotiable. Those who prioritise immediate cost pressures over long-term resilience, who underestimate cyber threats, risk leaving themselves exposed to operational disruptions, data breaches and reputational damage.

It will come as no surprise, then, that cyber resilience measures have shot up the priority list for manufacturers: 55 percent of firms are planning investment in digital resilience, up from 45 percent last year and just five percent the year before.

2026 will reward those who seek to forge robust relationships with domestic suppliers, invest in digital supply chains, and engage in strategic scenario planning for future shocks.

Read the full article in DPA's February 2026 issue

Written By Sophia Bell

Sophia Bell is the Group Editor of DPA, Connectivity, and PBSI. She joined the team in 2020 as Assistant Editor after achieving a First-Class Honours BA in English Literature and Film Studies from the University of East Anglia. In her current role, she leads the editorial strategy, driving digital growth and ensuring each title continues to deliver trusted, relevant insight for engineering and manufacturing professionals.