Stockport manufacturer joins digital champions network

Stockport-based manufacturer, Firstplay Dietary Foods, has become one of the latest manufacturers to have completed the fully-funded Leading Change for Digital Champions (LCDC) programme.

Delivered by government-backed technology adoption programme, Made Smarter North West, the LCDC programme supports a wide range of manufacturing personnel, from production operatives to aspiring managers, giving them practical tools through workshops, coaching, and a visit to Amazon’s fulfilment centre. Graduates also join the Digital Champions Network, which meets twice a year to share insights, collaborate, and connect with industry experts and Made Smarter advisors.

Firstplay Dietary Foods, specialists in nutritional and dietary products, which joined the programme to equip staff with the confidence and tools to lead digital change.

Charlie Rooms, Extrusion, Blending and VFFS Operator at Firstplay Dietary Foods, said:

“LCDC gave me simple tools to understand change and explain it to others. It made me realise that digital champions don’t need to be experts, they just need to help people adapt.”

In two years, nine cohorts of 84 people from 53 companies, including 30 from Greater Manchester, have completed the programme, creating a regional peer network of champions and Firstplay Dietary Foods is part of a growing Stockport contingent of manufacturers that have taken part. Other businesses from the town to complete LCDC include Arden Group and Massey & Harris. 

Commenting on the success of the programme, Ruth Hailwood, Made Smarter’s Head of Organisation and Workforce Development, said:

“Digital change works best when it’s embraced by people at every level. Digital champions are the vital link between leadership and the shopfloor, turning strategy into action and giving businesses the confidence to move forward. Already, the programme is having a tangible impact, with manufacturers overcoming barriers, improving communication, and embedding new technologies in ways that deliver lasting benefits.

“The success of the programme shows the power of a people-first approach. By building a peer network where champions share experiences and support one another, we’re helping manufacturers maximise the benefits of technology, manage change effectively, and embed a long-term culture of continuous improvement.”

LCDC complements Made Smarter’s Leading Digital Transformation programme for senior leaders by equipping the wider workforce to put strategy into practice, reflecting the belief that lasting change must flow through an entire organisation.

The next LCDC cohort begins in November, with workshops on 18^th and 25^th. With a few spaces still available, manufacturers across the North West are encourage to register their interest online.