Daily Manufacturing News Digest – the industry stories you should be aware of today

Posted on 24 Mar 2026 by The Manufacturer

Each day The Manufacturer compiles the top manufacturing news stories from around the web and compiles them into this daily digest to make your life a little easier. Don’t forget to bookmark this page and check back daily for all the latest manufacturing news.

New apprenticeship unit to supercharge battery manufacturing

An innovative new apprenticeship unit has been unveiled for battery manufacturing, expected to unblock skills barriers, creating jobs in the South West and beyond. Read more via The Manufacturer

From apprentice to award winner: how Rolls-Royce engineer Alexia Williams built a career in aerospace

In November 2025, The Manufacturer hosted The Manufacturer MX Awards at a gala ceremony in Liverpool, with Alexia Williams of Rolls-Royce winning the prestigious Young Manufacturer of the Year. Molly Cooper sat down with her to find out more about her current role and route into aerospace engineering. Read more via The Manufacturer

Aircraft orders surge 83% in February as aviation demand strengthens

UK commercial aircraft orders rose sharply in February 2026, climbing 83% year-on-year in a sign of renewed confidence across the global aviation market, according to the latest figures from UK trade association ADS. Read more via The Manufacturer

Made Smarter London expands after first year with £2.5m funding boost

Made Smarter London is set to double in size after securing £2.5m in funding, as city leaders look to accelerate digital adoption among small manufacturers and unlock productivity gains across the capital. Read more via The Manufacturer

Gill Group opens its doors to the next generation of engineers

Gill Group recently welcomed three local high school students from Brockenhurst College (James Lee, Oliver Bell and Jacob Covey) for an intensive work experience placement. Read more via The Manufacturer