Hurco show of strength

In the opinion of David Waghorn, managing director of machine tool supplier Hurco Europe, the Southern Manufacturing & Electronics show in Farnborough last month delivered on every front. Visitor numbers stood at 10,722, more than 5% up on last time, enquiry levels were high and the atmosphere throughout the hall reflected a manufacturing industry that is both resilient and ready to invest. Hurco welcomed a significant number of new contacts exploring its product range for the first time. Over the three-day event, 140 visitors from 88 companies engaged in detailed discussions on the company’s stand.

More information www.hurco.com

Enginuity appoints Ritchey as new deputy chair

Ian Ritchey has been appointed as the new deputy chair of UK engineering and manufacturing skills charity, Enginuity Group. The appointment strengthens the board at a time when the sector is navigating a period of rapid change. Ritchey brings a wealth of experience from across technical industries, including aerospace, defence, marine, nuclear and energy, and a proven track record of leading complex engineering organisations and programmes. His insight will be invaluable as Enginuity continues to champion an employer-led skills system that equips businesses with the talent they need now and into the future. 

More information www.enginuity.org

FANUC again named in top 100 innovators

Industrial automation specialist FANUC Corporation has been recognised as one of the Top 100 Global Innovators 2026 by Clarivate Plc, for the fifth consecutive year. Clarivate recognises and ranks the world’s top 100 most innovative corporations and institutions based on proprietary patent data. With AI technology rapidly rising to prominence, this year’s listed companies represent 16% of all high-intensity AI-related inventions. As evidenced by its recent partnership with AI leader NVIDIA, FANUC is focusing on AI technology to drive innovation within manufacturing.

More information www.bit.ly/4qWveYr

Sheffield Forgemasters celebrates 250 years

Sheffield Forgemasters is celebrating its 250-year anniversary. The Ministry of Defence-owned business has traced its heritage back to 1776, the year of American independence, when George Naylor helped his cutlery manufacturing partnership to move into steelmaking through the construction of a crucible steel furnace in the city.

CEO Gary Nutter says: “We’re dedicating 2026 to recognising the vast contribution that the company and its forerunners made to establishing Sheffield as the world’s most important steelmaking centre. We’ll celebrate this milestone with our people and the wider community, marking the new legacy we’re creating through our £1.3bn investment programme that will set the business up for generations to come.”

More information www.sheffieldforgemasters.com

Tadweld on track for 15% growth in 2026

Yorkshire-based steelwork manufacturing and coded welding specialist Tadweld is on track for its strongest year to date, targeting a further 15% growth that would see annual revenue exceed £6m for the first time in the company’s history. Following a highly successful 2025, the Tadcaster-headquartered business entered 2026 with strong momentum across its core markets and a clear strategy for expansion. Building on recent investment in systems, people and manufacturing capacity, Tadweld is now accelerating growth through new market opportunities, deeper sector focus and ongoing recruitment.

More information www.tadweld.co.uk