We’re excited to announce that Cooper Parry is now an associate member of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). A bold step reflects our deep commitment to the UK automotive sector and the people driving it forward.
From electric evolution to complex global supply chains, the automotive industry is experiencing transformational change. And as your trusted advisor, we believe we have to stay ahead of the curve, keep our ears to the ground, and continue offering industry-leading insights and services backed by the most current and reliable data available.
Becoming a member of the SMMT puts us at the very heart of the action.
THE SMMT – THE BEATING HEART OF BRITISH AUTOMOTIVE
With a legacy spanning over a decade, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) is one of the UK’s most influential trade associations. Representing over 800 automotive companies, the SMMT is a vital link between the sector and government, regulators, media, and global markets.
Their mission? To support and champion the industry through data, dialogue, and direction. From policy influence to world-class market intelligence, the SMMT stands as the voice of automotive excellence in the UK.
STAYING AHEAD OF INDUSTRY TRENDS WITH DATA-DRIVEN INSIGHTS
We know that in a sector as dynamic as automotive, real-time data isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. That’s why SMMT membership is so valuable to us, and more importantly, to our clients.
Through this partnership, we gain access to cutting-edge research, exclusive industry reports, and global automotive intelligence – all of which inform the tailored advice we provide across:
- Tax strategy and R&D incentives
- M&A advisory and investment readiness
- Supply chain risk mitigation
- Sustainability, ESG and B Corp journeys
- Digital transformation and systems integration
In short, we’re now better placed than ever to help your automotive business thrive.
WHY AUTOMOTIVE MATTERS
The UK automotive industry is a cornerstone of the British economy, employing over 800,000 people across a complex and highly-skilled value chain. This includes:
- 23 cutting-edge R&D centres
- 9 design centres
- 10 engine manufacturers
- Over 2,500 tiered suppliers
In 2024 alone, the UK produced:
- 779,000+ passenger vehicles
- 125,000+ commercial vehicles
The supply chain alone generates £4.26 billion in added value annually, employing 80,000 people in specialist roles. What’s more, the transition to electrification is accelerating:
- 35% of new cars produced last year were BEV, HEV or PHEV
- A projected 40,000 new jobs will be created by 2030 through the electrification transition
- 1 in 14 UK workers in manufacturing supports the automotive sector in some way
These statistics aren’t just impressive; they’re a call to action for firms that want to grow, invest, and compete at the highest level.
AUTOMOTIVE. UNDERSTOOD. SUPPORTED
We know the unique pressures facing the sector:
- Supply chain disruptions
- Inflationary costs
- Labour and skills shortages
- Geopolitical volatility
But we also know the massive opportunity in front of us: the UK’s reputation as a global hub for innovation is growing, and firms that adapt fastest will reap the rewards.
By becoming part of the SMMT network, we’re reaffirming our role as strategic partners to the industry, from engineering firms to component manufacturers, retailers to logistics providers.
We understand the lingo, the regulation, the pain points – and we have the right people, tools, and attitude to help you solve them.
PASSIONATE. EXPERT. INVESTED
Behind every service we offer is a team that lives and breathes automotive. From accountants who’ve worked in manufacturing, to M&A advisors with auto sector credentials, to tax experts who know the ins and outs, we bring together a dream team that gets you.
And now, with our SMMT membership, we’ve doubled down on our investment in being the go-to advisor for UK automotive businesses.
Ian McMahon, Head of Automotive at Cooper Parry, said:
“Joining the SMMT is a big moment for us. It reinforces our commitment to the industry and gives us access to the latest data, insights and conversations that matter. We’re here to support our clients through change, and being part of this network helps us do that even better.”
PARTNER WITH PEOPLE WHO GET IT
We’re not just here to tick compliance boxes. We’re here to add genuine value, drive progress, and build lasting relationships rooted in knowledge, agility, and results.
If you haven’t met our team yet, now’s the perfect time to get a feel for what we’re all about. Check out our Automotive Outlook, it cuts through the noise and gets straight to the trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the future of the sector.
Ready to shift gears?
Get in touch with our team today.
