Confederation of British Metalforming (CBM) Unveils Strategic Priorities for 2025
The Confederation of British Metalforming (CBM), a key partner of UK Metals Expo representing over 200 manufacturers, has unveiled its strategic priorities for 2025. The organisation is advocating for the appointment of a Minister for Manufacturing, greater SME involvement in the Industrial Strategy, and intensified lobbying around the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM).
Steve Morley and Geraldine Bolton of the CBM are united in their desire to amplify the voice of their members on key issues impacting competitiveness. They are committed to further enhancing CBM’s services over the next twelve months.
Despite challenges such as recent tax increases, ongoing geopolitical tensions, US tariffs, and global conflicts, both leaders believe there are still significant opportunities ahead—especially if stability returns to the automotive sector and aerospace industry growth continues.
They also stress that serious government support for the ‘Made in Britain’ initiative could dispel economic uncertainty and create new opportunities for UK manufacturers.
“It’s a positive that we’ve finally got an Industrial Strategy and that we and other trade bodies have been given the chance to have our say. We do have concerns, however. The make-up of the IS council lacks SME representation, and that doesn’t bode well for getting our voice across.
I also have a big worry that many major decisions will be made early, thereby consuming investment opportunities meant for small to medium-sized firms,” said Steve Morley, President of the CBM.
He continued:
“There will be major lobbying efforts around CBAM, and ongoing discussions about critical issues like skills, energy costs, and how we can reshore more manufacturing work.
Another key issue for our members is HMRC back duty claims related to steel safeguarding. Through our relationship with West Bromwich MP Sarah Coombes, we now have this back on the political table with the hope of achieving a fair outcome for manufacturers unfairly penalized.”
CBM’s Ongoing Work and Member Benefits
The Confederation of British Metalforming is the leading trade association for UK manufacturers of fasteners, forgings, pressings, cold-rolled, and sheet metal products. It offers extensive lobbying support and access to specialist technical expertise in metals, forgings, and fasteners.
Each year, CBM companies also save approximately £4 million through their Climate Change (CC) Levy administration services, with firms encouraged to register before May 1st to qualify for next year’s support package.
New Climate Change Agreement and Global Engagement
Geraldine Bolton, CEO of the CBM, added:
“We are currently developing a new six-year Climate Change Agreement running until 2033, featuring a new baseline year and updated targets.
There is an opportunity to include new eligible processes in these agreements, and our experts are working hard on this. The Government is tightening up on energy reporting requirements, with annual reports now mandatory for both CC agreements and ESOS.”
2025 will be an extremely busy year for CBM, with planned attendance at key international trade events including EIFI in Seville, Euroforge in France, and ICOSPA in Tokyo. These events are vital for staying abreast of global industry developments.
There will also be a vital opportunity to build momentum around the new CBM Corporate Membership scheme, with major partners such as JLR and the Advanced Forming Research Centre already on board—and a major financial services partner expected to be announced soon.
Future Innovation and Embracing AI
Geraldine Bolton concluded:
“Like our manufacturers, we must continue improving across all areas—there’s no room for complacency. The adoption of AI technologies will help us enhance our analytics, improve documentation, and deliver even greater value to our members.”
For further information, please visit www.thecbm.co.uk or follow the organisation across its social media channels.
