The Aluminium Federation (ALFED) is proud to announce its contribution to the official commemorative publication Monarchy & Democracy: A History of Leadership , launched today in partnership with the History of Parliament Trust and St James's House.
Credit: ALFED
The publication celebrates a century of constitutional evolution, democratic leadership, industrial progress and national resilience across the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth, reflecting the enduring partnership between Parliament, industry and national institutions that has helped shape modern Britain.
Produced by the History of Parliament and St James's House, the publication explores the role of leadership, innovation and stewardship throughout one of the most transformative periods in modern history, whilst recognising organisations and sectors that continue to contribute to the nation's future prosperity.
ALFED's contribution highlights the critical role aluminium has played in Britain's industrial development over the past century, from wartime manufacturing and aerospace innovation to today's low -carbon transition, renewable energy infrastructure and advanced manufacturing capabilities.
The feature was developed with supporting contributions from ALFED members Amari Metals Ltd, Arconic Kitts Green and Bridgnorth Aluminium Ltd, showcasing the strength, diversity and strategic importance of the UK aluminium supply chain.
Nadine Bloxsome, CEO of ALFED, said:
"It is a privilege for ALFED and our members to be included within this landmark publication celebrating 100 years of Monarchy and Democracy.
Aluminium has been central to Britain's industrial progress for generations, from defence and aerospace through to construction, transport, packaging and renewable energy.
The themes explored throughout the publication – leadership, resilience, innovation and long-term stewardship – strongly resonate with the UK aluminium sector and the businesses that continue to invest in Britain's industrial future.
Today, the sector continues to play a vital role in supporting UK manufacturing, economic resilience and the transition towards a low -carbon, circular economy. This recognition provides an important opportunity to showcase both the heritage and future potential of the UK aluminium industry."
The ALFED feature explores the evolution of the Federation since its formation in 1962, highlighting its role in representing the UK aluminium value chain and advocating for aluminium as a strategic material essential to national competitiveness, industrial resilience and net zero ambitions.
It also profiles several leading UK manufacturers and supply chain businesses:
• Arconic Kitts Green, Birmingham – the UK's last remaining aluminium plate mill, originally established in 1938 to support Spitfire production and today supplying advanced alloys for defence, aerospace and space applications.
• Bridgnorth Aluminium Ltd, Shropshire – the UK's only aluminium coil rolling mill, operating a fully integrated rolling, casting and finishing facility supporting domestic manufacturing and sustainable production.
• Amari Metals Ltd – a key part of the UK's aluminium distribution and stockholding network, supporting thousands of manufacturers, fabricators and engineering businesses nationwide.
The publication launch took place yesterday at Westminster Abbey, bringing together representatives from Parliament, government, industry, academia and the media to reflect on a century of constitutional, societal and industrial development.
ALFED's contribution also reinforces the Federation's growing work around industrial strategy, critical materials, circular economy development and the long -term resilience of UK manufacturing. As highlighted throughout the publication, strong institutions and strategic industries remain fundamental to national prosperity, economic security and sustainable growth.
Bloxsome added:
"As the UK looks towards the future, aluminium will remain fundamental to delivering sustainable growth, energy transition, defence capability and advanced manufacturing.
Our role at ALFED is to ensure the industry remains visible, valued and recognised as one of the UK's truly strategic industrial sectors, capable of supporting the next generation of economic and industrial development."
The official publication will be distributed across Westminster, government departments, Commonwealth institutions, universities and international networks, with an estimated global reach of more than 45 million through associated digital and media channels.
For more information about ALFED and the UK aluminium industry, visit www.alfed.org.uk