Changing Face of Manufacturing

Manufacturing in 2050

Manufacturing in 2050 will look very different from today, and will be virtually unrecognisable from that of 30 years ago. Successful firms will be capable of rapidly adapting their physical and intellectual infrastructures to exploit changes in technology as manufacturing becomes faster, more responsive to changing global markets and closer to customers. Successful firms will also harness a wider skills base, with highly qualified leaders and managers whose expertise combines both commercial and technical acumen, typically in science, technology, engineering or mathematics.

Predicting another year of increased opportunities

NOTE UK, a leading end-to-end contract electronics manufacturer, is predicting another year of increased opportunities for British-based producers of electronics. Recent supply chain issues and rising global costs have prompted a significant return of electronics manufacturing to the UK, as British and European companies seek to avoid the challenges associated with off-shore manufacturing.

“The repatriation of electronics manufacturing to the UK has been a common theme since the pandemic, Brexit, and subsequent global events. But it’s not just supply chain security that’s making businesses choose ‘Made in Britain’,” says Neil Owen, NOTE UK Group Managing Director.

State-of-the-art facilities

NOTE manufactures electronic products for various brands, including those used in Greentech, Medical, Industrial, Communication and Security sectors. With over 117,000 sq ft of state-of-the-art facilities located in Stonehouse, Windsor, Haddenham, and Basildon, NOTE employs over 300 skilled staff.

Over 40 years’ experience

With over 40 years of experience, NOTE produces both surface-mounted (on Printed Circuit Boards or PCBs) and conventionally assembled (through-the-hole) electronics for over 100 clients. NOTE’s focus on turning product ideas into reality by constantly developing skills and technology has made our manufacturing capabilities increasingly appealing to both British and international companies.

“We believe our partners are realising they can not only get great value in the UK but great flexibility – and the knowledge and support they need to make their products even better too,” adds Owen.

Investment

NOTE has invested significantly in training and equipment, increasing levels of automation and manufacturing capabilities, enabling greater efficiency and competitiveness. The design and engineering teams assist customers in developing and improving their electronics, providing a turnkey manufacturing solution.

In 2023, the UK market for manufacturing electronic systems for other companies was estimated to be worth 2.3 billion pounds. NOTE in the UK has grown year-on-year and have expectations to double their market share over the next 5 years.

UK contract electronics manufacturing is in fine health

“With the increasing importance of sustainability, long product life-spans, and short supply chains, UK contract electronics manufacturing is in fine health and more competitive and effective than ever,” concludes Owen.