EDITORIAL ROUNDUP

UK metals sector makes call for minister

The metals sector has made an overwhelming call for a ‘Minister for Manufacturing’ to back its vital role in supporting jobs and the UK economy.More than 62% of companies who took part in the ‘State of the Metals Industry’ annual report called on the Government to introduce a dedicated political power to represent their interests in Whitehall, with more than half throwing their considerable weight behind the introduction of the elusive ‘Industrial Strategy’. Further findings reveal 68% of metals companies feel they are recruiting from a limited talent pool, while 58% find it difficult to attract new workers.

More information www.ukmetalscouncil.org

Around 80,000 expected at MAKTEK

The eight edition of MAKTEK Eurasia,a major international exhibition for metal-cuttingmachine Tools, metal-forming machinery, tooling,metrology, CADCAM software and many other manufacturing technologies will take place on 30 September to 5 October 2024. Taking place at the Tüyap Fair and Congress Centre in Istanbul, the show will provide access to the latest technologies, innovations, industry trends and co-operation opportunities.

The previous edition of this biennial exhibition in 2022 saw 1000 exhibitor span 14 halls across 120,000 m² of floor space. In total, nearly 80,000 visitors were in attendance. According to an organiser survey, nearly 62% attended the show to see new innovations, while almost 49% visited to make contact with new suppliers.

More information www.maktekfuari.com/en

CGTech rebrands to Vericut

NC code simulation software developer CGTech is unveiling a new identity as it rebrands to Vericut, the name of its software and the name that best represents its legacy. “The transition to Vericut is more than a name change; it represents our vision for the future,” says Shin Voeks, president of CGTech. “We’re excited to continue our journey as Vericut, building on our legacy and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in manufacturing technology.” The initial brand transition has begun with the US website and at select global events, with plans to continue the worldwide rollout over the coming months.

More information www.cgtech.com

Supply chain accelerator

Digital Catapult has announced its first International Supply Chain Accelerator, which the organisation says is set to transform global supply chains through the application of deep-tech solutions. Two initiatives are unveiled: the first focused on seamless trade across borders and the second on product carbon footprint measurement, with a view to improving global supply chain resilience and advancing international industrial sustainability. The International Supply Chain Accelerator will enable participating technology pioneers to scale faster and strengthen supply chains across key economic sectors. 

More information www.bit.ly/47kyIfd

Sumitomo invests in EEW Offshore Wind

Sumitomo Corporation last month reached an investment and business operation participation agreement with EEW Offshore Wind EU Holding, a Germany-based manufacturer of monopiles – large diameter steel pipes for the foundation of bottom-fixed offshore wind power generation. Completion is scheduled for the end of December 2024, subject to various legal and regulatory requirements. EEW’s strength is its mass production system enabled by sophisticated technology to bend steel plates over 100mm thick and advanced high-quality welding technology.

More information www.sumitomocorp.com