There is an expected decrease of 521,000 in employment in manufacturing between 2002 and 2012, although it is still expected to account for over 10% of total employment in 2012. Although total job losses are high, there is still a need for recruitment to replace members of the existing workforce. Despite a decline in expansion demand, replacement demand is high for skilled trades and machine operatives, notably in the metal and food, drink and tobacco industries. There will be significant requirements for managers, associate professionals and technical workers across most manufacturing sub-sectors.

Key challenges for the sector include the need: to attract young people into the industry; to adapt the workforce skills to the fast-paced technology advances; and to develop standards of safety and competence to ensure that the highest levels of health and safety are achieved.

Sources: Working Futures 2004a and Skills in England 2003