The Evolution of Manufacturing in Scotland and the UK

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Howes, Megan (2025) The Evolution of Manufacturing in Scotland and the UK. Fraser of Allander Economic Commentary, 50 (3). ISSN 2046-5378

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Abstract

In the most recent five quarters, Scottish manufacturing and UK manufacturing have diverged substantially, marking a period of structural re-composition both in terms of manufacturing’s broad role in the respective economies, and within manufacturing sectors. This has prompted questions about the nature and prospects of Scotland’s manufacturing sector and how its role within the economy has evolved. This report highlights the historic transition of Scottish manufacturing toward concentrated, capital-intensive sectors. Though this continues to support Scotland’s economy, it exposes it to longer-term vulnerabilities around resilience, job density, and sector-specific shocks.

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