Firms ‘should look at investment opportunities amid challenging environment’ – UKSE
Businesses may feel weighed down by doom and gloom given the economic uncertainty but they should not ignore opportunities to secure investment for growth says Steve Grice, Midlands Regional Manager for investment specialist UKSE.
With Andy Burnham now occupying Number 10, companies are waiting on his government’s first Budget later this month with trepidation, given the market volatility due to the ongoing Iran conflict and fears over the technological impact of artificial intelligence.
They may seem in short supply but there are, to quote the old Ian Dury and the Blockheads song, reasons to be cheerful.
The UK economy is forecast to grow by more than previously expected this year before higher energy prices and interest rates hit in 2027, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) recently said.
The organisation's latest report said the UK economy would expand by 1.3 per cent in 2026, up from the 1 per cent it predicted in July, before slowing in 2027.
Having invested in West Midlands firms since 1975, investment specialists UKSE, part of Tata Steel, have helped businesses overcome turbulent times throughout our history. Nationwide, we have invested more than £123 million and helped create more than 85,000 jobs.
Based in Cannock, our West Midlands team is ready to help business leaders who believe this autumn is the right time to seek investment. We specialise in supporting business acquisitions, management buyouts, company expansions and the purchase of new equipment.
Autumn can be a time of seasonal worry, but while the headlines focus on economic caution, smart business owners know that periods of uncertainty reduce competition and can present opportunities for growth.
When others hit pause, initiative-taking companies can invest to capture market share. The best way of preparing for growth in 2027 could be by investing in tech or machinery.
UKSE has a proud history of supporting West Midlands manufacturers and other sectors for the purchase of new equipment or tech.
One beneficiary of our recent support was Securexit Ltd, based in Stoke-on-Trent, which manufactures bespoke steel fire and safety external doors for the retail, industrial, education and healthcare sectors across the UK and Ireland.
Securexit secured a six‑figure equity investment and additional loan finance from UKSE to launch in September 2025.
Since then, the company has expanded rapidly, growing to more than 30 employees and on track to achieve £3 million in turnover for the 2026 financial year.
Securexit’s managing director, David Lycett, said recently: “The past year has been transformational for Securexit. The investment and support from UKSE have been invaluable and has enabled us to accelerate our growth, expand our team, and strengthen our market position.”
Since its launch, Securexit has gone on to supply doors used for a range of public and private buildings, including entrances at Gatwick Airport.
Our region has a proud industrial and manufacturing legacy but it has never stood still. Many companies will remain committed to innovating, whether that is in green tech, manufacturing adaptations or local job creation in new skills.
For UKSE, our investment is only a qualified risk and more of a commitment to long-term community prosperity.
We would encourage business leaders to reach out to the UKSE West Midlands team for a straight-talking conversation about turning local ambitions into reality.