SME manufacturers in the food and drink sector have recently received support from Made Smarter’s groundbreaking adoption programme. Thanks to the initiative, 300 businesses have secured matched funding from the government-funded, industry-backed program, allowing them to adopt technologies such as sensors, robotics, 3D printing, and artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance their operations.
Among the companies benefitting from Made Smarter’s support are Brightside Brewing Company, Just Bee Honey, Studio Bakery, Chandley Ovens, Harbourside Products, and Northern Pasta Company. These businesses are embarking on their digitalization journey to improve their bottom line and contribute to a more sustainable environment.
One of the recipients, Allison Metcalf, managing director of Studio Bakery, utilized Made Smarter support to create a digital roadmap and invest in a new cutting machine, noting that the technology has significantly increased productivity and efficiency, enabling the business to meet increased orders and be prepared for further expansion.
Similarly, Brightside Brewing Company has expressed gratitude for the help, support, and training received from Made Smarter, highlighting how the investment has provided more control over critical processes, leading to increased profitability and upskilling of their brewery team.
In a similar vein, Chandley Ovens has invested in new software with the support of Made Smarter, enabling them to build an IT platform suited for their growing service business, procure modern equipment, and develop product ranges that prioritize control, energy efficiency, and ease of use.
The 350 technology projects backed by Made Smarter are forecasted to create almost 1,600 new jobs and over 2,850 upskilled roles, with an expected addition of £242m to the economy over the next three years.
With the Government committing to continue the North West adoption programme as part of a UK roll-out, manufacturers are encouraged to engage with Made Smarter to access the funded support on offer. This includes digital transformation workshops, expert technology advice, leadership and skills training, and grant funding for digital internships and technology projects.
Donna Edwards, director of the Made Smarter Adoption Programme in the North West, emphasized the importance of reaching out to more businesses and informing them about the benefits of technology adoption, asserting that adopting technologies at the right time and in the right way is the key to unlocking real benefits for industry, society, and the planet.
In conclusion, Made Smarter’s efforts in leveraging technology for the benefit of manufacturers are evident and will continue to make a significant impact, both economically and environmentally.
