The UK’s leading manufacturing trade organisation, Made in Britain, has reported a 20% surge in membership applications in the wake of President Trump’s sweeping new tariffs on imported goods, as interest in “buying British” grows among businesses and consumers alike.
In the month following the introduction of 10% tariffs on all imported goods from the UK — along with sector-specific duties of 25% on steel, aluminium and cars — British manufacturers have responded by stepping up efforts to promote homegrown products.
John Pearce, CEO of Made in Britain, said: “Since the tariffs, more businesses are focused on British manufacturing representation and promotion, so we’ve seen a real upswing in applications. There’s a clear correlation with the introduction of America’s sweeping trade tariffs, with businesses eager to celebrate and showcase their British-made products.”
Made in Britain, which currently has over 2,155 members, vets each applicant to ensure their goods are genuinely manufactured in the UK and uphold high standards in employment, ethics, and sustainability — making membership a recognised mark of trust and quality.
Pearce added: “If there’s one positive outcome from these tariffs, it’s a renewed recognition of the value of British-made goods — and that’s exactly what we want to encourage.”
The surge comes amid growing political momentum for a national ‘buy British’ campaign. Last month, the Liberal Democrats called for clearer labelling and stronger support for domestic manufacturing. Made in Britain has backed the proposal and written to Sir Keir Starmer, Kemi Badenoch, and Ed Davey to underline its role as a not-for-profit, independent, industry-led organisation working to champion British manufacturing both at home and abroad.
Founded to support UK manufacturers, Made in Britain helps companies promote their products, strengthen brand visibility, and build consumer trust through use of its globally recognised registered trademark.
With Trump’s trade war putting pressure on international supply chains, Pearce says many companies are seeing renewed value in local production, traceable sourcing, and resilient supply networks. Consumers, too, are more willing to seek out British-made goods, from engineered components to fashion, homeware, and food.
“Now more than ever, people want to know where their products come from — and they want to support British jobs and British values,” Pearce said. “We’re proud to be leading that charge.”
As global trade faces growing uncertainty, Made in Britain’s growth signals a wider shift towards economic self-reliance and the enduring appeal of the “Made in Britain” label.
