The UK manufacturing industry is rapidly changing. As larger organisations increasingly adopt modern technologies, it's essential for smaller manufacturers to follow suit in order to stay competitive and thrive in the long run.
By embracing digital innovations - from automation to 3D printing - businesses can unlock new levels of efficiency, reduce costs, and secure long-term success. Industry 4.0 represents the next phase of industrial development, with smart factories, interconnected systems, and data-driven decision-making at its core.
However, while many leading manufacturers are already leveraging the power of digital tools such as data analytics, AI, and machine learning, a significant number of smaller manufacturers are still reliant on traditional processes, potentially missing out on these opportunities for growth and efficiency. In fact, according to a 2023 report by Make UK, only around 30% of UK manufacturers have embraced digital technologies for supply chain management, and the gap between large and small manufacturers continues to widen.
This reluctance to adapt is often due to perceived high costs, lack of technical expertise, and uncertainty around which technologies will bring the most value. Despite this, the same report shows that businesses that adopt digital solutions see a 25% increase in productivity, demonstrating one of the potential gains.
However, with hundreds of digital technologies available, how do businesses choose the right solutions to improve efficiency and remain competitive without overspending? That’s where Made Smarter comes in!
Available Made Smarter support
If you are a small or medium-sized manufacturer in the East Midlands, Made Smarter offers a range of services to help you on your digital transformation journey, including:
- Impartial advice and guidance from digital technology specialists
- A digital transformation workshop, diagnostic, and tailored action plan for your business
- Match-funded grants of up to £20,000 for the purchase of capital equipment or specialist advice to implement projects
By taking advantage of the fully funded Made Smarter support, smaller manufacturers can implement new technologies without the financial strain, enabling them to compete in an increasingly digital world.
Start your digital journey today!
Take the first step towards digital adoption. Complete a simple expression of interest form, and a digital technology specialist will reach out to discuss your specific needs and provide tailored support
With Made Smarter, you can confidently start on your digital transformation journey, improve efficiency, and remain competitive in the evolving manufacturing landscape.