Aluminium sector needs support ‘sooner’, says ALFED CEO

Published 28th November, 2025 by Belle Law

The Budget outlined the Government’s plan to introduce the British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme (BICS).

Aluminium Federation (ALFED) CEO, Nadine Bloxsome, has called for more urgent support after the UK Government’s Autumn Budget was delivered.

The Budget outlined the Government’s plan to introduce the British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme (BICS), which aims to cut electricity costs for manufacturers.

However, support under BICS is not scheduled to begin until 2027, leaving many firms facing uncompetitive energy costs in the near term.

In a statement on the Budget, Ms. Bloxsome said: “The Budget acknowledges many of the pressures facing the aluminium and metals sectors, but support such as BICS needs to come sooner, not in 2027 – some businesses will not have that long to wait.

“We must now work together to ensure the relief arrives in time to protect UK capacity, investment and jobs.”

Although the Budget 2025 contains some important steps in the right direction, for many aluminium businesses the real challenge lies in today’s energy costs.

ALFED has pledged to continue to press the UK Government for faster action and stronger support.

Belle Law

Digital Content Assistant

Belle is a Digital Content Assistant for Aluminium International Today and Steel Times International. She studied a BA in English and Creative Writing and an MA in Screenwriting. She is also a freelance journalist working across multiple magazines and publications.