Specialist manufacturing forms a core of the County’s economy. BAE, with a base in Barrow-in-Furness, is the premier global defence, security and aerospace company delivering products and services for air, land and naval forces. The area’s shipyard plays a key role in the UK’s Defence Industry as Prime Contractor for the Royal Navy. In nearby Ulverston Marl International Ltd specialises in visible LED indication, illuminations, components and systems.

Top bed manufacturer Sealy UK’s springs are produced in Aspatria whilst in nearby Wigton is Innovia Films, producing high performance packaging and films. Cockermouth is home to James Walker & Company Ltd, world leader in fluid seals and gaskets and M-Sport, the team chosen by Ford for the FIA World Rally Championship; winning in 2006 and 2007.

Iggesund Paperboard, Europe´s leading manufacturer of paperboard is based in Siddick whilst adjacent is sports footwear manufacturer, New Balance; whose commitment to British manufacturing has been rewarded with a Queen’s Award for Enterprise. In Workington for over 40 years, Fortune 500 organisation Eastman, manufactures chemicals, fibres and plastics. Also based in the town is Indorama Polymers, making PolyEthylene Terephthalate (PET) polymer for the soft drinks market. Whilst in Carlisle world’s leading tyre manufacturer Pirelli has been producing tyres for 40 years. Based in Kendal is Gilbert Gilkes and Gordon Ltd, international producer of small hydropower systems.

These organisations offer just a taste of specialist manufacturers succeeding and prospering in Cumbria.