Made In Harlow

Discover Leading Manufacturers in Harlow

This site is your guide to outstanding products made in Harlow and the excellent companies behind them.

The manufacturing sector in Harlow, Essex is an established and evolving component of the town’s economy, combining historical roots with contemporary strengths in advanced and specialist production.

The growth of manufacturing in Harlow

Harlow’s manufacturing base originates from its development as a post-war New Town, planned to attract diverse industry to provide local employment. During its growth in the mid-20th century, prominent manufacturing and industrial employers—such as electronics, pharmaceutical and precision engineering firms—established operations in the town, although many of the original manufacturers have since closed or relocated. Harlow was also home to Standard Telecommunication Laboratories, where pioneering fibre optic technology was developed, representing a key contribution to global telecommunications history.

The sector today

Today, manufacturing remains a core part of Harlow’s economic base, even as the town’s economy has diversified into life sciences, digital technology, logistics and other sectors. Within employment statistics, manufacturing continues to figure as a significant industry for local residents, accounting for a notable share of jobs in the area.

Key Characteristics

• Diverse Industrial Base: The local manufacturing sector encompasses precision engineering, metal fabrication, fabricated metal products and various specialist production activities.
• Advanced and High-Value Activities: Some companies operate in high-technology and advanced manufacturing niches, including precision sheet metalwork for aerospace, automotive and industrial applications.
• Strategic Business Location: Harlow benefits from its position on the M11 corridor between London and Cambridge, strong road and rail links, and proximity to Stansted Airport, supporting efficient supply chains and access to major markets.
• Enterprise Zones and Innovation: Initiatives such as the Harlow Enterprise Zone (including Kao Park) aim to attract investment in advanced manufacturing, life sciences and medical technology, signalling an emphasis on innovation-led industrial growth.
• SME-Led Structure: Like many UK towns, the majority of manufacturing businesses are small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), forming a network of specialised producers alongside larger firms.

The economic role of manufacturing
Although the manufacturing sector in Harlow has declined in absolute terms from its mid-20th-century peak, it remains one of the principal contributors to local economic output (GVA) and continues to represent a relative employment strength compared with national averages. It coexists with complementary sectors such as logistics, health and life sciences, which together underpin the town’s broader economic resilience and future growth strategy.

The future
Harlow’s economic development plans emphasise strengthening its manufacturing base through investment in infrastructure, skills and innovation, while leveraging its strategic location and evolving industry clusters to attract new firms and retain existing ones.

Harlow Council

The council aims to help and support local businesses. Harlow businesses can access a wide range of business support and advice options. There’s more details here on the advice, funding and support that’s available.

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