North-west manufacturing pilot scheme, Made Smarter, is to deliver a virtual conference for the sector, showcasing the SMEs in the region that have benefited from digital transformation.
The free-to-access online summit, Made Smarter: The journey to digital manufacturing, will take place on Wednesday, March 10, from 9.00am-5.00pm.
Conference speakers will include comments from industry leaders who will explain the significance of digital manufacturing. They will be joined by SME manufacturers that have benefited from the Made Smarter pilot scheme in the North-west over the last two years, who will share their experiences of adopting new technologies.
SMEs involved in showcasing their digital transformations, include Stockport-based Creative Apparel, a clothing manufacturer which is developing a state-of-the-art smart factory in the town to deliver more sustainable production.
The one-day programme will be hosted virtually with events ranging from panel discussions and roundtables to interactive workshops and demonstrations of new technology. There will also be the opportunity to speak one on one with business advisers and explore the advice, support and funding available to manufacturers.
The Made Smarter conference is open to anyone working in the diverse spectrum of industries falling in the scope of UK manufacturing, including aerospace, automotive, chemical and pharmaceutical, construction, defence, electronics, energy, food and drink, nuclear, plastics, security, steel, space and textiles.
Over the last 2 years Made Smarter has worked with 1200 makers across the North West and provided 550 of them with advice, expertise and financial support to help them grow their business, increase competitiveness and reduce inefficiencies through digital tools.
Juergen Maier, Chair of the Digital Catapult and co-Chair of the Made Smarter Commission, said:
I am delighted to be participating in the Made Smarter: The journey to digital manufacturing conference to share my passion for the benefits of digital technology and celebrate the positive impact that Made Smarter’s adoption pilot is having on individuals, businesses, the environment, and the UK economy.
“For manufacturers by manufacturers, this summit is a must-attend event for anyone working in the sector to learn how to make their product or process smarter.
“In these tumultuous times COVID-19 has, without doubt, demonstrated that digital tools can enable and accelerate innovation, and create resilience.
“Grasping the digital opportunities has never been more important for businesses to recover and return stronger.”
To register for the conference, visit the Made Smarter website.