The survey also revealed 67% of respondents believe leaving the EU would make it harder for British manufacturers to run a successful business.
Despite supporting the EU, the report did also reveal a desire for change within the organisation. Around three quarters (73%) want to see a reduction of red tape and ‘gold plating’ of EU legislation. A little under one quarter (23%) want to see the creation of a digital single market to make global trading easier.
Tom Lawton, head of manufacturing, BDO LLP, called export and international trade “critical to UK mid-market manufacturers”.
“These firms are entrepreneurial, have high-growth targets and are focused on international expansion so it’s no surprise that the over half of them support remaining within the European Union,” he continued.
“Despite being supportive, mid-market manufacturing companies want to see further EU reform. They want an end to gold-plating, greater progress with trade agreements and increased liberalisation of markets. They are clear that this will create jobs and growth for the UK”.
