Why supporting UK manufacturing makes business sense

When you decide to buy British products, you are making more than a purchase – you are supporting UK manufacturing while lowering carbon emissions. Read our article to learn more…

Supporting jobs in UK manufacturing

Every time you purchase a British-made workbench, you’re helping to keep the UK manufacturing sector alive. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play a critical role in the UK economy, employing millions of people and keeping traditional skills thriving.

According to Make UK, the manufacturers’ organisation, the UK is the ninth largest manufacturing nation in the world with an annual output of £183 billion. The sector supports 2.5 million jobs and is responsible for 51% of UK exports and 15% of total business investment.

While importing workbenches from overseas, from countries like China, might cut costs, it does impact UK jobs. Since the industrial revolution, UK manufacturing has been a cornerstone of the economy, and every purchase helps sustain this sector for future generations.

High-quality products

Here at UK Workbenches, our products are built with quality and durability in mind. Unlike cheaper, mass-produced imports, British workbenches are built to last, often using superior materials and craftsmanship.

When you buy from a local manufacturer, like UK Workbenches, you’re investing in a product designed for long-term use, reducing the need for frequent replacements. In short, choosing a British workbench ensures you get a durable product that meets the demands of your workspace.

Reduce your carbon footprint

Have you considered the environmental impact of importing goods from countries like China? From the energy used in manufacturing to the emissions from long-distance shipping, the carbon footprint of importing cheap workbenches can be substantial.

Here are a few reasons why supporting UK manufacturing can reduce carbon emissions:

• Lower transport emissions: imported goods travel thousands of miles, often by air or sea, generating large amounts of CO2. UK manufacturers typically source local materials meaning your workbench requires fewer production miles.
• Environmental standards: the UK has some of the strictest environmental regulations, meaning British-built workbenches are produced using less energy and with eco-friendly materials. In contrast, overseas manufacturers can use coal-produced electricity for energy-intensive, polluting processes.
• Less packaging waste: products arriving from overseas come with excessive packaging to protect them during transit. This leads to more plastic waste and other non-recyclable materials that harm the environment. British workbenches need less packaging as they travel shorter distances.

Hidden costs of cheap imports

While it is tempting to buy a cheap workbench from abroad, there are hidden costs to consider. Beyond the environmental impact, many cheap imports may not comply with UK health and safety standards. Lower quality control in overseas manufacturing can result in products that are not as safe or reliable.

Over time, cheap imports can result in higher running costs due to frequent repairs, replacements or even accidents caused by inferior quality. When you invest in a British-made workbench, you’re getting a product designed to meet UK manufacturing standards.

Contact the experts at UK Workbenches

Hopefully, now you understand that choosing a British-made workbench is more than just a financial decision. You are showing a commitment to supporting UK manufacturing and local jobs while promoting sustainability and reducing your carbon footprint.

So, the next time you’re in the market for a new workbench, consider buying local. Your wallet, your workspace, and the environment will thank you. Contact us today.