The Cast Metals Federation (CMF) has welcomed the Government’s decision to include light metal and non-ferrous foundry Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) codes in the British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme (BICS).
The inclusion follows sustained lobbying by CMF and means that eligible businesses across all four UK metal casting SIC codes will now be able to apply for support under the scheme, potentially reducing their energy bills by up to 25%.
Throughout the consultation process, CMF submitted a comprehensive response setting out the case for the inclusion of all foundry sectors. The Federation also wrote directly to the Minister for Trade and worked with several Members of Parliament to reinforce the importance of supporting the UK’s metal casting industry.
CMF Chief Executive Lee Marshall said:
“When the Government first consulted on BICS, no foundry SIC codes were included at all. Following the first consultation, we secured the inclusion of two of the four metal casting codes, and now, through continued engagement and evidence-based campaigning, we have successfully achieved the inclusion of all four.”
He added:
“This is a very positive outcome and demonstrates the value of the work we have done in making the case for the foundry sector. Given that the list of eligible SIC codes only increased by four, with two of those being the remaining foundry codes, it highlights the importance of our continued campaign and the strong evidence provided by our members.”
Eligible businesses will need to apply to participate in the scheme. The application window is expected to open in October, with payments due to begin from 1 April 2027.
CMF will provide further guidance to members as the scheme is rolled out. A dedicated presentation covering the scheme and the application process will also be held at the upcoming CMF Members’ Day on 24 September at Dunston Business Village.
The latest Government response can be found here.
