Barclays Corporate Northern Ireland have published their Northern Ireland outlook for 2026. A long time supporter of our Manufacturing Month, their support and advice is invaluable for the manufacturing sector here, as evidenced by their understanding and commentary.

As Northern Ireland’s manufacturing sector looks towards 2026, the operating environment remains complex but increasingly opportunity-rich. Persistent pressures around costs, labour availability and investment confidence continue to shape boardroom decisions, yet there are emerging signals of renewed momentum across exports, productivity and capital deployment. This regional outlook draws manufacturing leaders’ attention to analysis from John Mathers, offering a practical assessment of what the year ahead may hold for industrial firms navigating change.

Through Barclays Corporate’s Northern Ireland outlook, John Mathers sets out the economic conditions, sector-specific dynamics and strategic considerations most relevant to manufacturers. The insight is particularly valuable for leaders weighing near-term caution against longer-term growth, and for those seeking to position their businesses to take advantage of stabilising markets, improving confidence and Northern Ireland’s established strengths in advanced manufacturing, engineering and global trade