UK — A survey conducted by Make UK found that 25% of British manufacturing companies either plan to move production overseas or have already done so. The decision to move operations is attributed to high energy costs and reduced profitability.

The survey also indicated that one in 10 manufacturing companies considered it likely or very likely they would face insolvency within the next 12 months. Make UK stated that the cost of energy in the UK is twice the average of continental Europe and four times higher than in the US.

Make UK chief executive Stephen Phipson reported that confidence among manufacturers has decreased to a four-year low. "Britain faces deindustrialisation unless manufacturers get relief from high energy prices," Phipson said. He added that 50% of industrial businesses' bills, totalling £3bn, consist of government carbon taxes and levies.

"Electricity and gas in the UK are far too expensive and it's costing our country steeply," Phipson said. Make UK called on the Treasury to cover the cost of taxes and levies paid by industrial businesses using funds from general taxation.

According to the survey, 46% of industrial companies reported an increase in energy bills following the start of the conflict in the Middle East. Among these, 60% passed the rising energy costs on to their customers.

The survey also noted that 98% of companies expect a squeeze on profitability in the coming quarter. In response to falling profit margins, 38% of companies delayed investment, and 21% reduced their headcount.

A government spokesperson acknowledged the challenges faced by manufacturing industries, including the cost of energy. The spokesperson stated, "We are tackling this through our modern industrial strategy, cutting electricity costs for industries across Great Britain, and announcing new support for the chemicals and ceramics industries." The government extended a subsidy scheme in April that reduces bills by up to 25% for 10,000 heavy energy users. The spokesperson further stated, "We will continue to work closely with manufacturing businesses across the UK to ensure we're doing what we can to help them through tough times." TUC general secretary Paul Nowak called for the British industrial competitiveness scheme (Bics), which takes effect in April 2027, to be expanded to protect jobs and maintain factory operations.