Enginuity Launches Second SME Survey to Gauge UK Manufacturing Sector Health

Event summary

  • Enginuity opens its second SME Snapshot Survey on January 26, 2026, running until February 6, 2026.
  • First survey in July 2025 captured data from 135 employers representing £1.1 billion in combined sales.
  • Key findings showed 80% of SMEs faced recruitment difficulties and 89% cited labor costs as major price pressures.
  • Survey results will inform national skills policy, workforce development, and industrial strategy.

The big picture

Enginuity's survey comes at a critical juncture for UK manufacturing, where SMEs—accounting for over 90% of the sector—face significant recruitment and cost challenges. The data collected will be pivotal in shaping industrial strategy and ensuring SME voices are represented in national policy decisions. The inaugural survey already influenced key stakeholders, including HM Treasury and the Department for Business and Trade, highlighting its strategic importance.

What we're watching

Policy Influence
Whether the survey results will drive meaningful changes in national skills policy and workforce development strategies.
Sector Confidence
How SME sentiment evolves in light of economic conditions and policy developments.
Investment Trends
The pace at which SMEs plan to maintain or increase investment in training and other growth areas.