SMMT: Auto industry leaders from across the South East to identify path to growth

New SMMT analysis reveals the importance of automotive manufacturing to the South East, with firms in the region delivering an annual economic contribution of £1.3 billion and supporting the livelihoods of more than 17,000 people – equivalent to one in 11 of all UK automotive manufacturing jobs.¹ Since 2015, £1.4 billion has been invested in the South East sector underscoring its continued strategic value to the UK economy.²

The South East has a strong automotive heritage, with the Brooklands motor circuit opening in 1907 and many famous marques beginning their illustrious history in the region. Almost 750 manufacturing companies are now based in the South East, making it a production hotspot in the UK and globally. The region's manufacturers include some of Britain's world-famous premium, sports and luxury brands, such as Caterham, Gordon Murray Automotive, McLaren, MINI and Rolls Royce, while also being home to Ford's UK engine plant. It is also a renowned location for R&D, innovation and testing – notably for motorsport and automated vehicles – with the adjacent Motorsport Valley and Cambridgeshire Innovation Corridor helping position the South East as a key area for investment.

Speaking ahead of the event, Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said, “We are delighted to bring SMMT Regional Forum to the South East this year, an area with strong automotive ties, a highly skilled and productive workforce, and a large economic contribution. The event's focus on product innovation and how it will reshape the industry could not be better timed as global investors decide where to design, engineer and build the next generation of cutting-edge electric, connected and automated vehicles.”

Regional Forum is part of SMMT's efforts to provide nationwide support, networking and business connections for members, and this year's agenda consists of two informative sessions with industry leaders, including: Dr Andy Harris, Head of Research and Data Analytics, Wrightbus; Lisa Brankin, Managing Director, Ford of Britain; Louis Jones, EV & Connected Services Director, DAF Trucks; and Ramona Dienel, Finance Director, BMW (UK) Manufacturing & Swindon Pressings. They will be joined by senior representatives from SMMT, including CEO Mike Hawes.

Representing more than 800 automotive companies in the UK across production, sales, supply chain and aftermarket, SMMT provides a forum for members to voice their views on issues affecting them – helping firms to grow their businesses to become more profitable, competitive and sustainable. SMMT holds major events throughout the year, including SMMT Summit and Electrified, alongside regional events across the UK. Members benefit from free event access and enjoy other exclusive benefits, including access to industry data, webinars and intelligence not available elsewhere.

Regional Forum South East takes place at the Oxford Belfry Hotel in Thame, Oxfordshire on Wednesday 15 October. Find out more about the event and register to attend here: www.smmt.co.uk/event/regional-forum/