News: UK maritime sector reports strong growth as it prepares for ‘crucial role’ post-Brexit
Report
coincides with the start of London International Shipping Week
Maritime productivity, employment, turnover and contribution to GDP have increased nationwide over a five-year period, a report has found.
The
report, which was released today to coincide with London International Shipping
Week, found that over five years, the British maritime sector had experienced a
12.7% increase in turnover, 6.6% increase in GVA and 3.9% increase in
employment.
It
also showed that productivity per worker stood well above the UK average at
£77,897, compared to £50,830, and that the sector contributes nearly £40
billion to the UK economy.
The
sector continues to invest in its people, with average pay also well above the
UK average at £39,300, compared to £27,600.
“The
report released today shows the vital role that maritime already plays in
British life,” said David Dingle, chairman of Maritime UK.
“Across
the United Kingdom, we are seeing fantastic growth and we expect it to
continue.”
This
week, Maritime UK welcomes international and domestic industry and government delegations,
as the sector prepares to play a greater role in the economy in the wake of
Brexit.
“As
the engine of British trade, the UK maritime sector supports nearly 1 million
jobs, contributes tens of billions to the UK GDP and drives exports as well as
inward investment. Half a trillion pounds worth of goods pass through UK ports
each year” Mr Dingle said.
“The
importance of the sector will only grow post-Brexit. We’re supremely confident
that we can play a crucial role in positioning Britain as an outward-looking,
global trading maritime nation.
“London
International Shipping Week is an opportunity to place our world-class maritime
offering in the shop window, as government and industry figures from across the
world come to see the best of British.”
“Equally
important will be the various conversations that will take place between UK
maritime leaders and Government. Maritime is the facilitator of UK trade, with
95% of all our imports and exports coming on ships and through our ports. The
effectiveness with which we can do this rests in no small part on the strength
of our relationship with Government and the level of support that we receive
from it.”
The full report is being formally launched in Parliament on Wednesday lunchtime. All data will be available online shortly after: www.maritimeuk.org/value
ENDS
Notes to editors: For more information or to arrange interviews, contact:
Henry Kirby, Senior Consultant at Right Angles
+44 (0) 7714 471152
or
Amy Williams, Consultant at Right Angles
+44 (0) 7724 208044