NEWS T


EU INDUSTRIAL ACCELERATOR ACT MOVES THROUGH MAY REVIEW PHASE


he European Union’s proposed Industrial Accelerator Act (IAA) continues to advance through its early legislative stages in May 2026, with policymakers, man-


ufacturers and industry groups closely watching its potential impact on European industry. Originally unveiled by the European


Commission in March, the Act is designed to strengthen Europe’s industrial competitiveness, accelerate clean manufacturing investment and reduce strategic dependence on external supply chains. A major focus of the proposal is the


introduction of ‘Made in EU’ procurement measures, which would favour European


and low-carbon products in selected public purchasing and funding programmes. The initiative is intended to support


domestic industrial production in sectors including clean technologies, advanced manufacturing and energy-intensive industries. During May, the proposal has remained in


a consultation and review phase, attracting growing feedback from stakeholders across manufacturing, steel, machinery and industrial technology sectors. Industry representatives have been


urging policymakers to ensure the legislation improves competitiveness without creating excessive compliance burdens or supply-chain disruption. One area receiving particular attention


is the treatment of low-carbon industrial products, with manufacturers calling for clearer definitions and stronger backing for European-made materials and equipment. The proposed legislation also includes


measures aimed at streamlining industrial permitting. Through simplified administrative procedures, digital approval systems and the creation of Industrial Acceleration Areas, the EU hopes to shorten development timelines


for strategic industrial projects, including factory upgrades and decarbonisation initiatives. As of May, the Industrial Accelerator Act


has not yet become law and is progressing through the standard EU legislative process. Discussions are moving into European Parliament review and member- state negotiations, where amendments and political debate are expected. A key question emerging in current


discussions is how strongly the EU should prioritise domestic production while balancing international trade relationships and supply-chain realities. The proposal is being closely monitored


by companies involved in factory automation, material handling, robotics, industrial equipment and manufacturing solutions, as any expansion of European industrial investment could influence future demand for automation systems, logistics infrastructure and production technology. Further negotiations and revisions are


expected in the coming months as EU institutions work toward shaping the final form of the legislation.


www.gov.uk PALL-EX GROUP SET TO INVEST £8 MILLION INTO


NEW SUSTAINABLE SOUTH WEST LOGISTICS HUB New job openings arrive as plans for two new South West hubs have been revealed by logistics network, Pall-Ex Group, as it earmarks an £8 million investment for strengthening its services across the region


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he South West peninsula, often known as the ‘final frontier’, has historically been one of the most challenging delivery locations in the UK due to its landscape. In spite of that, the region has been dubbed a ‘logistics hot spot’, with brands like Pall-Ex continuing to see year-on-year growth. Now, businesses throughout the region will soon benefit from the launch of two new facilities in Willand, Devon (Pall-Ex South West), and Launceston in Cornwall (Pall-Ex Logistics), giving them access to a range of haulage services including next-day palletised freight distribution, warehousing and storage. Pall-Ex South West’s 218,000 sq ft hub in


Willand, Devon, is expected to be completed by Summer 2026. While existing staff will relocate to the new


site, located less than half a mile from the current facility, the expansion is expected to increase its local workforce by 15 per cent, with roles spanning customer service and night planners, to warehouse and forklift operators. Its plans to recruit will enable the site to double its operational limits and process an excess of 60 vehicles per night across the two new sites. Meanwhile, the Launceston hub, a 114,000 sq ft purpose-built facility, is already operational, where it offers increased storage capacity of up to 3,500 pallets and the movement of 650


pallets per day. The successful relocation of its existing


team will also be bolstered by a further 10 - 15 per cent growth in its workforce; with roles in warehouse staffing, supervision and management roles soon to be available. News of the investment follows a landmark


start to the year for the brand, as it celebrated its 30th anniversary. Since its incorporation three decades ago, Pall-Ex has evolved into a national and international powerhouse, with this latest South West expansion representing the next chapter in its commitment to growth.


www.pallexsouthwest.com


FACTORY&HANDLINGSOLUTIONS | MAY 2026 9


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