Manufacturers risk AI productivity gains without urgent action on skills and adoption

Issue No. 279
10th June 2026

Manufacturers risk AI productivity gains without urgent action on skills and adoption

A new Make UK report reveals that while AI could unlock billions in productivity gains for UK manufacturing, skills shortages and low levels of adoption risk preventing businesses from realising its full potential. Indeed, it warns that most firms remain stuck in the early stages of adoption. Nina Gryf, senior policy manager for AI and digitalisation at Make UK, comments: “It is essential that manufacturers, particularly SMEs, have access to the tools, skills and guidance they need to adopt AI confidently and effectively. If we are to realise the full economic benefits of AI and strengthen the competitiveness of UK industry, government, industry and education providers must work together to support widespread adoption.”

With best regards

Mark Simms, Editor
editor@machinebuilding.net

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