Run by trade body Make UK, and now in its third year, NMD24 has become a national celebration of UK manufacturing and a chance to raise the profile of the sector.
Hundreds of manufacturers are opening the doors to their factories as part of a UK-wide ‘open house’. Members of the public can experience first-hand what manufacturers do, how they make some of our most loved household brands, and how they use the most cutting-edge technology.
With manufacturing vacancies high, the labour pool shrinking and makers struggling to find recruits with the right skills, NMD24 is a golden opportunity to demonstrate potential careers and jobs on offer, from engineering and robotics to data analysis and innovation.
Manufacturers backed by Made Smarter North West taking part in NMD24, include Playdale, a playground equipment manufacturer based in Cumbria, and Duo UK, a manufacturer of packaging products based in Greater Manchester.
Meanwhile, The Expanded Metal Company, a specialist manufacturer in metal mesh solutions based in Hartlepool is offering tours of its factory. This follows the successful implementation of a cobot welder aided by Made Smarter North East.
Elsewhere, the team from Made Smarter Yorkshire and Humber are hosting workshops demonstrating the benefits of better data capture and management, as well as how manufacturers can unlock innovation through new technology.
From a national perspective, Brian Holliday, co-chair of the Made Smarter Commission, which leads the Adoption and Innovation programmes, will be sharing his insights for a special ITN programme to highlight the positive impact of the manufacturing industry. The show, ‘Manufacturing: Industry, Innovation and Impact’, will go out on NMD24 and will feature contributions from Made in Britain and The Manufacturing Technologies Association.
Commenting on NMD24, Donna Edwards, director for Made Smarter North West, said: “I am delighted that Made Smarter and manufacturers involved in our adoption programmes are demonstrating support for Make UK’s campaign. NMD24 aligns perfectly with the programme’s ambitions to help SME manufacturers achieve their digital transformation with a people-led approach and using technology as a tool. It is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate UK manufacturing, something Made Smarter is passionate about.
“By opening their factories, which are normally closed to the public, manufacturers can showcase the huge progress that has been made from the traditional oily rag image towards the smart modern factory. I would encourage any North West manufacturers to join the campaign.”
To learn more about how to get involved visit nationalmanufacturingday.org. And don’t forget to let us know if you are taking part by emailing madesmartermarketing@growthco.uk so we can help promote your event.