Employers in the manufacturing sector must now offer increasingly attractive packages to their people with pandemic-driven remote working helping to accelerate change in the way businesses operate.
New research has shown that a third of employees feel they have more power now than before the COVID-19 pandemic.
The data, from Benenden Health's 'Workforce of the Future' report, also found that almost half of working adults in the sector (46%) believe that the pandemic has changed their relationship with their employer.
The effect of this change is a significant power shift from employers to employees, with more than a third (37%) of workers in manufacturing feeling that they have more power now than before the pandemic, putting pressure on employers to carefully consider what they are able to offer workers amidst the 'Great Resignation' and debates over return to workplace policies.
The survey also found that workers in the industry are now increasingly likely to extend future job searches to wider geographical areas in the hunt for employment that provides their desired flexibility, satisfaction and benefits.
Whilst the average employee working in manufacturing today lives 15 miles away from their designated workplace, workers revealed that they would now be willing to take jobs 43 miles away from home on average.
With more than 3,000 workers at 60 companies in the UK now trialing a four-day working week from, three-day weekends (41%) were revealed to be the number one thing that manufacturing employees would like to see introduced in the next five years, whilst a fifth (20%) now believe that an offer of wraparound healthcare is a necessity.
Benenden Health is encouraging employers in the sector to consider their approach to recruiting and retaining talent as we move away from the pandemic with this new dynamic in play.
Naomi Thompson, Head of OD at Benenden Health, said: "The Great Resignation and the impact the COVID-19 pandemic has had on traditional working structures will be historic, and our research shows a hugely significant shift in the power balance between employers and employees and with the average worker telling us that they plan on leaving their current job in the next five years, businesses are now facing a crucial crossroads.
"Whilst employees have increasingly open minds with regards to where they work and what their role consists of, employers still need to take action to be an attractive proposition to the talent pool.
"The world of work has undoubtedly changed for good and it has never been more important for businesses to consult with their employees and ensure that they are providing the necessary tools and support to create a healthy workplace where people want to be in an increasingly competitive job market."
Benenden Health is a mutual organisation offering high quality, private healthcare at the same affordable cost for everyone. This includes round the clock care such as 24/7 GP and Mental Health helplines, plus speedy access to services such as physiotherapy and medical treatment.
Construction News
01/08/2022
Manufacturing Sector Affected By Pandemic-Driven Changes


04/07/2025
JV North has announced the list of contractors and consultants appointed to its £500 million social housebuilding framework, which aims to deliver around 3,000 homes across the North West over the next four years.
The housing consortium, which includes 14 members, launched the procurement process i

04/07/2025
Work has officially started on preparing Eston Precinct for demolition, marking the first step in a major regeneration project led by Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council.
Esh Construction has been appointed to deliver the scheme, which will begin with the safe removal of asbestos and the soft strip

04/07/2025
The Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero hasgranted development consent for the Mona Offshore Wind Farm.
The scheme, located in the Irish Sea, will deliver approximately 1,500MW of clean energy capacity and forms part of the Round 4 Offshore Wind Licensing Arrangements. The applicati

04/07/2025
The restoration of Chatham’s iconic Brook Theatre is officially underway, with the appointment of contractors to carry out the £21 million transformation of the 125-year-old building.
Originally opened in 1899 as Chatham Town Hall, the Grade II listed Renaissance-style landmark has served the commu

04/07/2025
Work to upgrade a flood-prone section of Stockbridge Road in Timsbury is set to begin later this month, as part of a joint project between the Environment Agency and Hampshire County Council to improve local flood defences.
Starting on 28 July, the five-week scheme will deliver vital improvements a

04/07/2025
Oldham's town centre regeneration has taken a major step forward, with planning consent now granted for all six sites earmarked for transformation through the partnership between Muse and Oldham Council.
The approval represents a significant milestone in the long-term vision to create a vibrant, in

04/07/2025
As temperatures soared during this week's heatwave, euroloo's innovative EcoWelfare units proved to be a game-changer on construction and outdoor sites across the country.
Designed with comfort and sustainability in mind, these multi-functional welfare units offer everything teams need to stay pro

04/07/2025
Atlas Site Engineering, a trusted name in precision setting out and site engineering services, continues to support the construction industry with expert solutions ranging from small residential extensions to multi-storey high-rise developments.
With a reputation for accuracy and reliability, Atlas

03/07/2025
Associated British Ports (ABP) has submitted a reserved matters application for 103,000 sq ft of speculative industrial and logistics space at Helm @ Immingham.
This marks the first phase of development at the 227-acre site.
The scheme will deliver a range of purpose-built units from 4,820 sq ft

03/07/2025
First Choice Homes Oldham (FCHO) is set to begin a major new phase of energy efficiency upgrades this month, with a £6.1 million investment aimed at improving 645 homes across the borough.
Starting 14 July, properties in Abbey Hills, Roundthorn, Shaw, and several estates in Chadderton will receive