Cetec ERP announces two new AI-driven features

At the recent ERPALOOZA user conference in Texas, Cetec ERP unveiled two major AI-powered automation tools – Document Scan & Attach and AP Automation – designed to eliminate manual paperwork and accelerate back-office operations for manufacturers. Together, these features advance Cetec ERP’s mission to give manufacturers full control over their systems by reducing friction, improving accuracy and centralising operations within a single integrated platform.

The new Document Scan & Attach feature automatically files paperwork like receipts, work order packets and vendor documents directly into Cetec ERP. Using OCR and AI, the system reads scanned PDFs, intelligently matches them to the correct records and attaches them automatically. Any documents that cannot be matched are routed to a review queue for quick follow-up.

The new AP Automation tool streamlines invoice processing by turning emailed or scanned vendor invoices into vouchers automatically. Invoices are read with OCR and AI, then matched against purchase orders and receipts for a complete three-way match. When matches are verified, vouchers are automatically approved. Any discrepancies are flagged for review.

Starting at $250 per month, the AP Automation feature increases the capacity of accounting departments at small manufacturing companies by reducing administrative overhead and data entry. It also provides improved visibility into accounts payable operations without removing control of cash flow.

“These features take tedious, error-prone work off people’s plates and increase their capacity for more value-added work,” says Scott Ryan, senior consultant at Cetec ERP. “We want to make daily processes simpler, faster and more reliable for our customers.”

Built as a modern, cloud-native solution, Cetec ERP is a complete ERP platform – fully integrated, from quote to cash – for the complex realities of today’s manufacturing.

More information www.cetecerp.com

WIKA Opens New Subsidiary in Morocco

Industrial measurement instrument specialist WIKA has expanded its footprint in north Africa with a new subsidiary in Casablanca, Morocco. The move is part of WIKA’s strategy to operate with agility worldwide through local facilities. By being closer to customers and partners on site, the company aims to process orders even more efficiently and deliver even higher level of service.

“The opening of the subsidiary in Morocco marks an important milestone in our regional growth strategy,” says Marcel Frei, senior vice president forsouth Europe. “Our local presence enables us to offer customers even more flexible, personalised support and to strengthen collaboration with regional partners. All of this increases our visibility in north Africa and helps us unlock new market potential.”

More information www.wika.com

Plans For UK’s First Electric Air Taxi Network

Vertical Aerospace has set out plans with Skyports Infrastructure and Bristow Group to launch the UK’s first electric air-taxi routes between Canary Wharf and major transport hubs such as Heathrow, Gatwick, Cambridge and Oxford. The new routes, planned to launch in 2029,would cut multi-hour road journeys to minutes by air, targeting Canary Wharf to Heathrow in just 12 minutes

The announcement was made as Vertical Aerospace unveiled Valo, a piloted, four-passenger electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft that will fly up to 100 miles at up to 150 mph. Valowill produce zero operating emissions and carry certification with the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and the European Aviation Safety Authority (EASA). Vertical has circa 1500 pre-orders of Valo and targets producing 225+ aircraft annually by Q4 2030.

More information www.vertical-aerospace.com

Collaboration Will Spur Next-Generation UAVs

GKN Aerospace is entering a new strategic teaming agreement with autonomous platform provider Anduril Industries UK that will accelerate the development of advanced uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAV) and rotorcraft technologies for UK defence programmes. The partnership will target key UK contracts expected in early 2026, delivering modern capability while reinforcing the UK’s sovereign industrial base.

The signing ceremony took place last month at GKN Aerospace’s Cowes facility, where much of the work will be delivered following the company’s recent £10m investment in the site. Isle of Wight West MP Richard Quigley attended the event to emphasise the importance of such partnerships for the UK’s manufacturing sector and support the potential for more than 100 new jobs on the Island through future work packages.

More information www.gknaerospace.com

Pre-Met MD recognised for industry contribution

Metal pressings specialist Pre-Met reports that its managing directorJames Leng has been recognised as one of Britain’s Great 100 – a national honour celebrating leaders who shape the future of UK manufacturing and engineering. Selected by the Made in Group, the Great 100 highlights individuals who are backing Britain through outstanding leadership, advocacy and commitment to strengthening the UK industrial landscape. Says Leng: “This recognition reflects the dedication of the entire Pre-Met team and our shared commitment to backing British innovation, skills and industrial strength.”

More information www.metalpressingsandstampings.co.uk