Until recently, the struggle for competitive advantage in manufacturing focused on low-cost, centralized production.

Already, rising wages and international trade disruption were challenging this model. Now Covid-19 is accelerating progress toward ”Industry 4.0”: the use of next-generation technologies to improve productivity and quality, and reduce costs and time-to-market.

From the use of innovative new materials to “digital twins” that enable predictive maintenance; from advanced robotics to 3D printing, manufacturing in 2050 will look very different from today, and virtually unrecognizable from that of 30 years ago.

Already, in the U.K., it is possible to catch a glimpse of that future.

Businesses like Liverpool’s CNC Robotics are pioneering the use of industrial robots in sectors as diverse as automotive manufacture, architecture and clean energy.

World-leading automotive company McLaren has embraced 3D printing to rapidly prototype new parts for their vehicles. In fact, its unique approach to high-performance product development has seen it embark on partnerships with other U.K.-based business such as GSK and Deloitte to share its expertise.

According to this month’s EY Attractiveness Survey, developing key sectors such as advanced manufacturing will help the U.K. to rebound post-pandemic and build on its attractive business environment across the U.K. for investors around the globe.

But why is the U.K. so well-placed to support businesses embracing advanced manufacturing?

With a rich heritage of innovation, pioneering universities and R&D tax relief, companies here can be agile and respond dynamically to the latest trends and technologies. In fact, the U.K. is ranked in the top five in the Global Innovation Index 2019.

The U.K. also has the largest air transport system of any major European economy, as well as road, rail and sea links that span the world, ensuring businesses can easily plug into global supply chains.

With every sector poised to experience transformation through advanced manufacturing in the years to come, the U.K. provides expertise, connectivity and infrastructure for businesses as they seek to navigate the exciting changes ahead.