30.01.2025

After supporting the sector’s most ambitious celebrations yet last year, Make UK are pleased to confirm that National Manufacturing Day is back again for 2025. 

Set to take place on Thursday, 25 September, we need you to make this year even bigger and better, as you help us showcase and celebrate the innovation, talent and hard work of our makers up and down the country. 

From Truro to Dunfermline, Swansea to Great Yarmouth, over 250 companies around the UK opened their doors to thousands of students and others in their local communities on National Manufacturing Day 2024. This year, we would like to see even more companies setting up open days to show the amazing opportunities available in the sector.

Last year saw activities for visitors ranging from the hands-on - VR welding; flight simulators; designing F1 cars; robotics; creating bath bombs; and 3D printing – to thinking about future careers, with employers showcasing the endless possibilities in our sector.

National Manufacturing Day isn’t just a day for inspiring career-minded school, college and university students though, it’s also a chance for staff to show off their own hard work and achievements, with many companies inviting employees’ friends and family to see their place of work. While those looking for a career change are also encouraged to join in – there are plenty of retraining opportunities available for everyone in the manufacturing sector.

How can I take part in 2025?

If you run a manufacturing business, you can sign up today by clicking here! For those who took part last year, all you need to do is quickly update your pledge. But even if you’re planning an open day for the first time, we just need the name of your company and a contact email so we can get in touch with you with loads of ideas!

You don’t need to provide all of the details of your company’s plans just yet, but, by signing up, your pin will be added to our interactive map, meaning that you’ll be visible to those looking to come along to an open day.

While NMD 2025 may still feel a long time away, it is imperative that you start your planning as early as possible, so you have time to invite your local school and college students to your site. Don’t worry though, we’ve drafted a template letter for you which you will receive when you sign up.

Teachers will need a fair amount of notice to make all the necessary arrangements before they can bring the next generation of makers to your event, while local MPs and media also have busy calendars - so don’t leave it to the last minute to invite them! Our website is full of helpful resources to make the process as smooth as possible for you. 

If you need some inspiration for your plans, then why not take a look at some of the amazing events from last year in our gallery.

We can’t wait to see you take part on Thursday, 25 September! If you have any questions or need support, please contact the team: [email protected]