Three Emerging UK Manufacturers to Watch in 2027

The next generation of British manufacturing is already taking shape, learn about three emerging UK manufacturers to watch in 2027

While established manufacturers continue to dominate the headlines, a younger generation of UK businesses is developing new technologies, expanding production capabilities and creating opportunities across the industrial supply chain.

Here are three worth watching.

1. Sunswap – Electrifying Transport Refrigeration

Founded in 2020, Surrey-based Sunswap develops fully electric transport refrigeration systems.

The company has recently expanded into a new manufacturing facility in Leatherhead, four times the size of its previous site. It is the company's second expansion in just 14 months, reflecting growing demand for its technology.

With expanded production, research and testing capabilities, Sunswap demonstrates how quickly a relatively young manufacturer can progress from product development to industrial-scale manufacturing.

2. Pragmatic Semiconductor – A Different Approach to Microchips

Pragmatic Semiconductor is developing flexible, ultra-low-cost integrated circuits, with manufacturing operations in North East England.

The company has expanded its manufacturing capabilities in Durham, with its FlexLogic-003 cleanroom expected to support the creation of 500 additional skilled jobs by 2030.

Its development highlights the UK's growing ambitions in specialist semiconductor manufacturing.

3. Space Forge – Bringing Space Technology into Manufacturing

Founded in 2018, Cardiff-based Space Forge is developing technology that uses the unique conditions of space to produce advanced semiconductor materials.

Its work connects space-based innovation with potential industrial applications on Earth, including electronics, telecommunications and power systems.

Although at an earlier stage of commercial development, Space Forge represents an interesting example of how emerging technologies could reshape future manufacturing supply chains.

Why These Businesses Matter

Growth in manufacturing is not always led by the industry's largest employers.

New facilities, increasing production capacity and developing technologies can all signal changing requirements for machinery, automation, engineering expertise and industrial services.

At MFG Insight Group, we monitor these developments to understand where manufacturing is changing - and where new opportunities may emerge.

Manufacturing Intelligence. Meaningful Connections.