UK manufacturers’ product sales rise in ’23

UK manufacturers saw their product sales rise to £456.1 billion in 2023, an increase of £17.2 billion (3.9 per cent) compared to 2022.

The food manufacturing sector remained the largest contributor, representing 20.8 per cent of total sales.

The motor vehicle manufacturing sector showed the biggest growth, with sales increasing by £9.6 billion (22.0 per cent) to £53.3 billion.

Motor vehicles with spark ignition engines over 1,500 cc saw a notable rise, up by £4.0 billion (23.4 per cent) to £21.2 billion.

Other products experiencing significant growth included soft drinks, up £696 million (12.4 per cent) to £6.3 billion, and fresh or chilled beef and veal cuts, which increased by £468 million (9.8 per cent) to £5.3 billion.

Despite the overall growth, manufacturers noted declining sales in some areas due to rising costs of living and higher production expenses, which reduced consumer spending on non-essential items.