Smarter support secured
A glass manufacturer has secured support from a programme that helps businesses boost productivity and growth using digital tools.
Pearson’s Glass, based in Liverpool, has received backing from the Made Smarter Adoption programme in the north west for a technology project.
This will involve upgrading and integrating its internal systems including website, warehouse and transport operations.
Simon McKay, managing director, said: “The project is a huge step forward for our business, moving away from a very manual and paper-driven process towards real-time stock management and automating processes from customer through to distribution.
“The changes will improve efficiencies, reduce the mundane tasks, thus enabling our staff to carry out value added processes and drive sales.”
Since 2019 Made Smarter has supported 161 businesses with £3.9 million matched funding for 201 projects, leveraging £10.5 million of private sector investment.
Some manufacturers are developing projects using emerging technologies, which enable them to integrate systems, capture and analyse data, and even create simulations of their plants and processes. Others are using 3D-printing, automation, and robotics to solve business challenges and meet increased demand.
This transformative technology adoption is forecast to create 990 new jobs, upskill 1,845 existing roles, and deliver an additional £162.4 million in gross value added (GVA) for the north west economy.
Donna Edwards, programme director for the Made Smarter Adoption programme in the north west, said: “Industry 4.0 is the future of manufacturing. Through it, the entire sector can reap endless rewards that will ultimately lead to considerable – and sustainable – growth. But upgrading to new technologies can seem like a complex and daunting task, and SMEs can miss out on significant improvements to their operations.
“Over the last two and half years we have developed a programme of wide-ranging support which cuts through the jargon to provide honest, impartial advice to help businesses identify the most effective digital tools, innovation and skills needed to make an everyday difference to their operations.
“I am delighted that so many manufacturing and engineering businesses of all sizes, from across all sectors, have realised the benefits of digital technology and would encourage other SMEs in the region to start their own conversation with us.”
Over 80% of SMEs working with Made Smarter to adopt cutting-edge technologies have seen a boost in productivity, and more than 25% reduced their carbon emissions. Businesses will also benefit from increased revenue, profits and exports, and lower energy bills.
