Enginuity launches 2026 SME Snapshot Report amid skills challenges

The Policy Centre for Supply Chain and SMEs, powered by Enginuity, has launched its 2026 SME Snapshot Report, highlighting the ongoing skills and cost pressures facing UK engineering and manufacturing SMEs.

Building on the inaugural 2025 report, the latest survey gathered insights from more than 250 SMEs employing over 10,000 people and generating £1.91 billion in turnover.

While 53% of firms expressed optimism about the year ahead, 80% of employers recruiting reported difficulties finding suitable staff, with technical skills shortages remaining a key concern. The report warns that current skills reforms risk placing additional strain on smaller businesses without targeted support.