EDITORIAL ROUNDUP

Manufacturing Champion Named CBM Ambassador for SMEs

The Confederation of British Metalforming (CBM) has appointed one of the industry’s most passionate advocates as its new ambassador for SMEs. Andrea Wilson, who recently left manufacturing business Hone-All Precision after the sale and successful completion of her five-year earn out, will work with CBM members, industry stakeholders and policymakers to ensure the challenges of manufacturing SMEs are represented at the highest levels. 

“Andrea brings unparalleled passion, credibility and commitment to this important role,” states Geraldine Bolton, CEO of the CBM. “She has consistently demonstrated her dedication to supporting manufacturing SMEs and ensuring their voices are heard. Her tireless advocacy, particularly her campaign for a Minister for Manufacturing, reflects the determination and vision our sector needs.” 

More information www.thecbm.co.uk 

Robotic Sorting Deal

Bystronic has entered into an agreement to acquire Isochronic AG, a Swiss automation technology company specialising in high-speed robotic sorting systems and software for laser cutting applications. Isochronic will continue to operate under its own name. Founded in 2020 and headquartered near Lausanne, Switzerland, Isochronic develops advanced simultaneous pick-and-place robotics for automated material handling and sorting. The company’s technology combines innovative robotic kinematics with a proprietary software platform.  

More information www.bystronic.com 

Automation Consolidation

Siemens is strengthening its automation business to help industrial customers build more flexible, productive and resilient production systems. As part of its ONE Tech Company strategy, Siemens will therefore bring together its four automation business units into a single organisation effective 1 October 2026. Customer Services, Factory Automation, Motion Control and Process Automation will be consolidated into one unified organisation: Automation. Rainer Brehm has been appointed president of Automation. He will report to Cedrik Neike, member of the board of Siemens AG and CEO Digital Industries. 

More information www.siemens.com 

New Bridgnorth Aluminium GM Targets Business Growth

One of Bridgnorth’s largest employers has appointed a new general manager to lead the next stage of its expansion. Ilias Avgerinos is already looking to build on a transformational two years that has seen the business return to 24/7 production and capitalise on new investments in the cast house and finishing lines. The experienced industrialist, who has held several senior roles at parent company Viohalco Group, believes there are significant opportunities for growth in North America and new territories, while also feeling the domestic market offers plenty of untapped potential. 

More information www.bridgnorthaluminium.co.uk  

Join the Automation in Action UK Roadshow this Month

Manufacturing teams are under pressure to improve productivity, maintain quality and do more with fewer resources. Join Universal Robots and its technology partners on 29 September (09:30-14:30) at Mercedes-Benz World, Weybridge, Surrey, to see how industrial collaborative robots are helping manufacturers solve real production challenges. Visitors will experience live automation demonstrations, including industrial collaborative robots in action across machine tending, packaging, food handling and screwdriving applications. Leading partners will include Schunk, Piab, OnRobot, Sick and RobotIQ. 

More information www.tinyurl.com/527ah2sk