The Aluminium Federation (ALFED) welcomes the unveiling of Invest 2035: The UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy, a visionary 10-year plan aimed at creating a resilient and sustainable future for the nation’s economy. This strategic framework, now open for consultation, outlines key growth areas and presents a pro-business approach designed to foster investment, high-quality jobs, and sustainable development across the UK.
Invest 2035 highlights the Government’s commitment to drive growth across eight key sectors, including Advanced Manufacturing and Clean Energy Industries, where the UK aluminium sector plays a crucial role. The strategy’s focus on sustainability, skills development, and regional growth aligns closely with ALFED’s vision for a robust, future-ready aluminium industry.
ALFED CEO, Nadine Bloxsome, stated: “We welcome Invest 2035 as an essential step forward for the UK’s industrial landscape. The aluminium sector stands to benefit from this strategy’s focus on clean energy, regional development, and skills enhancement. Our industry is integral to the UK’s Net Zero ambitions and broader economic growth, and we look forward to working with the Government to ensure our sector’s specific needs are addressed.”
ALFED’s recently launched UK Aluminium Manifesto underscores the importance of a tailored approach to support the sector’s transition to sustainable practices and resilience amid global challenges. ALFED encourages its members to actively participate in the consultation process and provide feedback on areas such as:
- Renewable Energy Investment: Support for clean energy solutions to reduce the carbon footprint of aluminium production.
- Skills Development: Aluminium-specific training programs that align with the strategy’s focus on workforce enhancement and digitalization.
- Regional Growth: Targeted support for aluminium clusters in areas like the Midlands and North East to drive local economic growth and global competitiveness.
Nadine Bloxsome added: “We urge all ALFED members to engage in the consultation period. By contributing their insights, they can help shape a strategic framework that not only strengthens the aluminium sector but also enhances the UK’s position as a global leader in sustainable manufacturing.”
Invest 2035 offers a unique opportunity for the aluminium industry to collaborate with the Government and other stakeholders in crafting a future-focused strategy that meets the challenges of today and tomorrow. ALFED remains committed to supporting its members and advocating for the needs of the aluminium sector throughout this consultation period.
For reference, please review the Government’s full report here and access the consultation here.
You can also find the list of Consultation questions in an easy-to-read format in the Members Area. Responses are due by the 24th November 2024.
Your feedback is invaluable in representing our industry comprehensively.
About ALFED The Aluminium Federation (ALFED) represents the UK aluminium industry, advocating for its members and supporting growth through innovation, sustainability, and collaboration. ALFED works to ensure that the aluminium industry plays a vital role in the UK’s economic and environmental future.
