From long-established engineering businesses to international companies making new investments, manufacturers are choosing Shropshire as a place to grow, innovate and compete.

The county has a strong manufacturing and engineering base, with strengths in precision engineering, machinery manufacture, metal fabrication, agri-tech and industrial technologies.

Businesses benefit from access to major markets, established supply chains and engineering expertise across the West Midlands and beyond.

Manufacturing continues to play an important role in the local economy. Around 790 manufacturing businesses employ approximately 11,500 people and contribute £836 million each year. Companies including Bridgnorth Aluminium, Caterpillar Shrewsbury Ltd, Grainger & Worrall and Syspal form part of a diverse manufacturing community that supports innovation, exports and skilled employment across the county.

Börger’s new HQ at Shrewsbury’s Stadium Point

For many businesses, location is about more than logistics and infrastructure. It is also about finding the right environment to support long-term growth.

Börger UK Ltd, is one example. The German-owned manufacturer recently relocated from Staffordshire to Shropshire and invested significantly in its UK operations.

In a recent Invest in Shropshire video, Managing Director David Brown highlights the county’s accessibility, with connections to Wales, Birmingham and Manchester. He also points to the positive impact that Shropshire’s quality of life has had on the business.

Established manufacturers continue to see value in the county too. According to Adrian Musgrave, Head of Sales at Bridgnorth Aluminium, Shropshire’s engineering skills base remains one of the county’s key strengths. He also highlights Bridgnorth’s industrial heritage and the manufacturing expertise that businesses can still draw upon today.

And Bridgnorth reflects the wider story of manufacturing in Shropshire. Built on centuries of river trade, engineering and industry, the town remains home to internationally connected manufacturers. That heritage has helped create a skilled workforce and a culture of engineering excellence that continues to support business growth today.

Looking ahead, skills remain critical to the sector’s success. Partnerships between employers and providers such as Shrewsbury College and In-Comm Telford are helping to develop the next generation of engineers through apprenticeships, technical qualifications and specialist training programmes.

For manufacturers looking to invest, relocate or expand, Shropshire offers a combination of engineering expertise, skilled people, strong supply chains, excellent connectivity and an exceptional quality of life.

As both new and established businesses continue to demonstrate, Shropshire is a place where manufacturing companies can grow with confidence.

Watch the video : Shropshire Manufacturing : Why Two Manufacturers Chose Shropshire to Locate, Grow and Invest