James Selka, MTA chief executive officer, explains the reasoning: “The MTA has always worked closely alongside EEF, but in this time of uncertainty we have decided a more formal partnership is necessary to ensure the entire manufacturing sector speaks with one unified voice. The political uncertainty created by Brexit negotiations with the EU means that the UK’s manufacturers, and those representing them, must come together to ensure we get the best deal possible for our sector.”
He adds: “A key challenge facing the manufacturing sector in the UK is of course the Brexit negotiations. The manufacturing sector is intrinsically linked to Europe through supply chains and trade. We need to work together to ensure the UK government acts in the best interests of the country’s manufacturers.”
EEF says that affiliate partnerships are open to UK membership organisations that operate in manufacturing, engineering and industrial sectors. It says: “These relationships are very important; by working together, we are better placed to both deliver a stronger industrial sector for the UK.” Other EEF affiliate partners include the Lighting Industry Association and the Confederation of British Metalforming. As affiliates, MTA members are eligible for discounts to EEF events and access to members’ information on the EEF website.
By contrast, two trade associations are full members: UK Steel, the trade body for the steel industry, and aerospace, defence, security and space supply chain organisation NDI. Both were acquired by EEF.
