12.11.2025

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution for workforce challenges

Recruitment pressures look very different across the UK. Sometimes the differences are regional, with areas like the South West and Wales finding it particularly difficult to fill roles. While other times it’s linked to business size, with small and mid-sized firms currently struggling to attract and retain talent.

There’s a similar story with different parts of the manufacturing industry. Makers of metal products, businesses working in rubber and plastics, and manufacturers of mechanical equipment face some of the most persistent hiring challenges.

It’s clear that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to recruitment issues. The pressures on people, skills and workforce planning vary by location, business size and sector.

Local challenges need local solutions

Every manufacturer operates in a different environment. The talent market is shaped by varying regional skills pipelines, pay expectations and access to training. Smaller firms often compete with larger employers for the same limited pool of technical talent, while sector-specific issues, such as automation or regulatory change, create additional complexity.

This makes workforce planning a local challenge as much as a national one. The most effective HR strategies are those built on data, insight and understanding of the context in which each site operates.

What employers should do next

  1. Tailor your workforce strategy: Work out how to align your HR and business plans to regional labour market realities. What works in one area or plant may not apply to another.
  2. Benchmark your people practices: Conduct HR audits by site, region or business unit to spot inconsistencies, inefficiencies or risks. Local insight drives stronger performance.
  3. Listen to your employees: Use employee engagement surveys to understand how workplace culture, morale and motivation differ between sites. Local feedback helps target improvement where it matters most.
  4. Draw on local expertise: Work with advisers who know your region and sector. Local HR and policy specialists can provide practical support, insight and advocacy tailored to your circumstances.

How Make UK can help

We understand that workforce challenges look different across every region and sector.

Our support includes:

  • Vision workshops to tailor workforce strategy to regional or sector-specific pressures.
  • HR audits to benchmark people practices and identify priorities by site or region.
  • Employee engagement surveys to measure morale and motivation at a local level.
  • Local consultancy support from our regional HR experts and policy specialists who understand the challenges manufacturers face in their area.

We work with employers to turn local workforce challenges into practical action that strengthens business performance.

If you want support tailoring your workforce strategy to your region or sector, get in touch. Email [email protected] or call 0808 168 5874.