Delivering Industry 5.0: How UK manufacturers can harness the power of AI
We’ve put together a market insight report to help your manufacturing business navigate its AI journey.
Inside, you’ll find practical guidance on aligning AI with your strategy, empowering your workforce, and building a future-ready, competitive operation.
AI Adoption in Manufacturing: Widespread, But Shallow
According to Make UK report, two-thirds of British manufacturers are using AI—but only 16% feel they truly understand its potential. This highlights a growing gap: while many have started with basic automation or off-the-shelf tools, few are tapping into AI’s full power to drive innovation and growth.
We Asked Industry Peers: What Are the Top Barriers to AI Adoption in Manufacturing?
Here's What We Found
%
Lack of knowledge, experience and expertise internally
%
Concerns around security, privacy and confidentiality
%
Financial investment required
%
Competing priorities
UK Lagging in Global AI Race: Time for Manufacturers to Act
Despite AI’s rapid global adoption, the UK trails behind major markets like India, China, and the US in AI maturity.
A recent BSI study reveals that UK businesses—particularly manufacturers—are taking a cautious approach to AI investment, risking competitiveness in a rapidly advancing global market. With AI poised to transform operations, productivity, and innovation, UK industry leaders must accelerate readiness or risk being left behind.
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Our report outlines how AI is transforming manufacturing under Industry 5.0, emphasizing human-centric, sustainable, and resilient practices.
Report contents:
- What do we mean by AI?
- AI in manufacturing – current adoption
- Where can AI drive the most value for your business?
- Exploring AI’s potential – Martin’s Rubber Co.
- Responsible AI – concerns and safeguards
- Choosing the right AI tech for your operations.
- Is your business ready for AI? Knowing where to start
Riding the AI Wave
According to the Soldo Spend Index, investment in AI tools increased by 449% in 2024 compared with the previous year – and the trend shows no signs of slowing.
Such a rapid uptick in spend suggests some manufacturers may be investing in AI without first laying out a clear strategy for its success, or taking the proper precautions from a data perspective.
AI Tools Like Copilot and EVO Drive Productivity
Tools like Microsoft 365 Copilot and tailored AI solutions like Access Evo now enable staff to save time by doing much of the heavy lifting in their daily roles – while ensuring jobs are done to a high standard. Our latest research supports this, with 93% of employees stating they have adopted AI tools as part of their job role and saying the impact has been positive
Other resources
AI: A Step Change for Manufacturing – Panel Discussion
Hear from industry professionals and experts who share valuable insights and perspectives on how AI is shaping the future of manufacturing.
Our Customer, Martin’s Rubber Co.’s journey with AI
Laurent Watremetz, Business Intelligence Manager at Martin’s Rubber, shares his thoughts on the company’s journey with AI so far
Access Suite of Solutions for Manufacturing
Gain access to powerful functionality and software solutions which join up, streamline and automate your data and processes, to the benefit of your bottom line.