As the UK positions itself at the forefront of the next industrial revolution, Advanced Manufacturing has emerged as one of the eight IS-8 priority sectors under the UK Government’s Modern Industrial Strategy, Invest 2035.
This initiative is designed to boost investment and innovation in industries that will shape the UK’s economic future.
At DataGardener, we’ve added all eight IS-8 sectors to our platform, including:
- Advanced Manufacturing
- Clean Energy
- Creative Industries
- Defence
- Digital and Technologies
- Financial Services
- Life Sciences, and
- Professional & Business Services
This makes it easy to explore these strategically important industries in one place.
In Advanced Manufacturing, new technologies, scientific research, and automation are transforming the way things are made, from aerospace engines and electric vehicles to smart materials and robotics. This sector is key to the UK’s economic strength, sustainability, and global competitiveness.
What Is Advanced Manufacturing?
Advanced Manufacturing refers to the use of innovative science, digital technologies, and high-value processes in the design and production of goods.
It goes beyond traditional manufacturing by embedding automation, artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, additive manufacturing (3D printing), data analytics, and advanced materials into every stage of production, from concept to delivery.
In practical terms, it combines:
- Research and Development (R&D): Continuous innovation in materials, systems, and design.
- Digital Integration: Use of sensors, IoT, and real-time analytics for intelligent production.
- Automation and Robotics: Precision and efficiency in assembly, machining, and logistics.
- Advanced Materials: Lightweight, sustainable, and high-performance materials like graphene and composites.
- Knowledge Networks: Collaboration between academia, government, and industry.
- Highly Skilled Workforce: Engineers, data scientists, and materials experts driving innovation.
This combination makes Advanced Manufacturing not only a technology-driven discipline but also a strategic economic engine powering the UK’s transition to a net-zero, digital, and globally competitive economy.
Why Advanced Manufacturing Matters to the UK Economy
Advanced Manufacturing contributes significantly to the UK’s GDP, exports, and innovation ecosystem.
According to government projections, the sector will be a key growth driver for:
- Decarbonisation and Net Zero: Enabling low-emission vehicles, renewable energy systems, and circular production.
- Regional Economic Growth: Creating advanced industrial clusters in the Midlands, North West, and South West.
- Technological Sovereignty: Reducing reliance on foreign supply chains in critical areas like semiconductors and batteries.
- Job Creation and Skills Development: Generating high-value employment in engineering, design, data, and R&D.
- Productivity and Competitiveness: Using digital technologies to boost manufacturing efficiency and quality.
In short, the sector sits at the intersection of sustainability, digitalisation, and industrial strategy, making it central to the UK’s long-term competitiveness.
Frontier Industries in Advanced Manufacturing
Below is a breakdown of the UK’s frontier industries within Advanced Manufacturing — sectors that drive the country’s innovation capacity and global competitiveness.
| Frontier Industry | Why It’s Important |
| 1. Automotive | Drives innovation in electric vehicles (EVs), autonomous mobility, and global exports. |
| 2. Batteries | Critical to energy transition, electrification, and large-scale energy storage. |
| 3. Aerospace | Core to high-value manufacturing and international competitiveness. |
| 4. Space | Advances in satellite and launch technologies underpin communication and defence. |
| 5. Advanced Materials | Supports various sectors, including aerospace, energy, construction, and automotive. |
| 6. Agritech | Modernises food production using robotics, AI, and sustainable technologies. |
| 7. Robotics & Automation | Improves productivity, precision, and safety. |
| 8. Semiconductors & Electronics | Powers AI, connected devices, and automotive tech. |
| 9. Industrial Machinery | Supports smart machinery and digital production. |
| 10. Chemical & Advanced Processes | Produces catalysts, coatings, and advanced polymers. |
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Defining Each Frontier Sector
1. Advanced Materials
Manufacturing of innovative materials, such as composites, graphene, ceramics, and lightweight metals, that enhance performance and sustainability across multiple sectors. These materials are used in aerospace, automotive, energy, and defence, offering improved durability and efficiency.
Example: Composite materials and nanomaterials that improve fuel efficiency and sustainability in aircraft and vehicles.
2. Aerospace Manufacturing
Aerospace manufacturing represents a high-value subsector that produces aircraft, spacecraft, and associated machinery. It’s vital to the UK’s export economy and technological competitiveness.
3. Agritech
Agritech fuses digital, mechanical, and biological innovations to improve agricultural efficiency and sustainability. It incorporates controlled environments, robotics, automation, sensors, and AI for precision agriculture.
4. Automotive Manufacturing
Focuses on the design and production of electric vehicles (EVs), autonomous systems, and advanced vehicle components. It relies on lightweight materials, additive manufacturing, and connected digital systems for smart, sustainable mobility.
5. Batteries
Encompasses the production and supply chain of batteries, accumulators, and energy storage solutions that power EVs and renewable energy systems. It plays a crucial role in the UK’s net-zero transition and energy resilience.
6. Space Manufacturing
Space manufacturing encompasses the production of satellites, spacecraft, and related systems that support communications, defence, and climate monitoring industries.
7. Robotics and Automation
The design and integration of robots and autonomous systems into industrial processes. It enhances productivity, precision, and safety across sectors such as logistics and healthcare.
8. Semiconductor and Electronics Manufacturing
Involves the design and fabrication of microchips, sensors, and electronic components, which are crucial for applications ranging from AI to automotive systems.
9. Industrial Machinery and Equipment
Focuses on smart machinery, additive manufacturing equipment, and digital control systems that enable intelligent production environments.
10. Chemical and Advanced Process Manufacturing
Combines chemical engineering, biotechnology, and materials science to produce high-value industrial products such as catalysts, coatings, and advanced polymers.
SIC Codes for Advanced Manufacturing
SIC codes are used to classify industries, but they can be outdated and don’t always reflect modern, high-tech manufacturing. Some areas, like advanced materials, aren’t fully captured by these codes.
At Datagardener, we use updated data and classifications to give a more accurate view of Advanced Manufacturing. Here’s a list of SIC codes commonly used to represent the sector:
| SIC Code | Description |
| 20 | Manufacture of chemicals and chemical products |
| 26 | Manufacture of computer, electronic and optical products |
| 27 | Manufacture of electrical equipment |
| 28 | Manufacture of machinery and equipment not elsewhere classified |
| 29 | Manufacture of motor vehicles, trailers and semi-trailers |
| 30 | Manufacture of other transport equipment |
| 303 | Manufacture of air and spacecraft and related machinery |
| 3316 | Repair and maintenance of aircraft and spacecraft |
| 283 | Manufacture of agricultural and forestry machinery |
| 272 | Manufacture of batteries and accumulators |
These codes encompass key areas of Advanced Manufacturing, including aerospace and automotive, batteries, machinery, and agritech.
A Better Way to Track Advanced Manufacturing
Instead of relying solely on outdated SIC codes, our platform maps the modern economy, including emerging technologies such as AI, robotics, advanced materials, and clean energy — helping you quickly find the right companies and opportunities.
The top 10 advanced manufacturing companies by turnover
01. Jaguar Land Rover Limited
Incorporated: 1982
Location: West Midlands
Latest turnover: £25.24 billion
Jaguar Land Rover Limited is the UK’s largest automotive manufacturer, known for producing luxury vehicles under the Jaguar and Land Rover brands. Headquartered in the West Midlands, the company combines British design with advanced engineering and sustainable innovation. Its manufacturing plants in Solihull and Halewood are at the heart of the UK’s automotive sector. The company continues to invest heavily in electric mobility and sustainable materials as part of its “Reimagine” strategy.
02. Ford Motor Company Limited
Incorporated: 1928
Location: East of England
Latest turnover: £13.32 billion
Ford Motor Company Limited operates as the UK arm of the global Ford brand. Based in the East of England, it manages vehicle manufacturing, financing, and R&D operations. The company plays a leading role in automotive innovation, producing engines and supporting logistics for Ford’s European network. It maintains strong ties with UK suppliers and participates in government procurement and sustainability initiatives.
03. Johnson Matthey PLC
Incorporated: 1891
Location: London
Latest turnover: £11.67 billion
Johnson Matthey PLC is a London-based global leader in sustainable technologies and speciality chemicals. The company develops catalysts, battery materials, and hydrogen technologies that enable cleaner air and energy transition. With a history stretching over a century, Johnson Matthey plays a major role in the UK’s green industrial strategy and holds multiple sustainability accreditations, including net-zero commitments and modern slavery reporting.
04. Nissan Motor Manufacturing (UK) Limited
Incorporated: 1984
Location: North East
Latest turnover: £7.36 billion
Nissan Motor Manufacturing (UK) Limited is one of the UK’s largest automotive manufacturers, operating a state-of-the-art plant in Sunderland. The facility produces hundreds of thousands of vehicles annually, including the electric Nissan LEAF. The company’s investment in battery and EV production underpins the North East’s growing reputation as the UK’s hub for electric mobility.
05. BAE Systems (Operations) Limited
Incorporated: 1986
Location: South East
Latest turnover: £7.10 billion
BAE Systems (Operations) Limited is part of the BAE Systems Group, one of the world’s foremost defence, security, and aerospace companies. Based in the South East, the firm supports the design, manufacture, and maintenance of advanced defence technologies. It is an active participant in UK government procurement programmes and holds accreditations for gender pay gap transparency and modern slavery compliance.
06. J.C.B. Service
Incorporated: 1956
Location: West Midlands
Latest turnover: £6.47 billion
J.C.B. Service, part of the JCB Group, supports global manufacturing and servicing of construction and agricultural machinery. From its West Midlands base, JCB continues to innovate in machinery design, sustainability, and electrification. The company is a key employer and contributor to the UK’s manufacturing export economy.
07. J.C. Bamford Excavators Limited
Incorporated: 1956
Location: West Midlands
Latest turnover: £5.33 billion
J.C. Bamford Excavators Limited, the flagship company of the JCB brand, designs and manufactures heavy machinery used in construction, agriculture, and industry. Headquartered in Rochester, it operates globally but maintains deep UK roots. The company invests in R&D for hydrogen and electric machinery and engages in large-scale government procurement contracts.
08. Dyson Technology Limited
Incorporated: 1985
Location: South West
Latest turnover: £5.10 billion
Dyson Technology Limited is the UK innovation powerhouse behind some of the world’s most recognised household technologies, from vacuum cleaners to air purifiers. Headquartered in Wiltshire, Dyson merges cutting-edge design and engineering with global manufacturing. It’s also a key employer in STEM fields, supporting apprenticeships and sustainability initiatives across the South West.
09. Airbus Operations Limited
Incorporated: 1997
Location: South West
Latest turnover: £4.62 billion
Airbus Operations Limited designs and manufactures wings and other key components for the Airbus range of aircraft. Operating from major sites in Filton and Broughton, the company employs thousands of skilled engineers and technicians. It is a cornerstone of the UK’s aerospace sector, integrating robotics and digital manufacturing in its advanced production lines.
10. Smith & Nephew PLC
Incorporated: 1937
Location: East of England
Latest turnover: £4.38 billion
Smith & Nephew PLC is a global medical technology company headquartered in Watford. It specialises in advanced wound management, orthopaedics, and surgical technologies. With operations in over 100 countries, the firm combines innovation with a strong ethical framework, including gender pay transparency and sustainability reporting.
Conclusion
Advanced Manufacturing lies at the heart of the UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy, powering innovation, sustainability, and growth. By integrating science, automation, and advanced materials, it not only transforms production but also strengthens national resilience, drives decarbonisation, and creates the high-value industries of tomorrow.
Other resources:
- How to Spot a Financially Unstable Business Before It’s Too Late
- What If You Could See Any Company’s Turnover in a Few Clicks?
- IS-8: What the UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy Means for You