The National Metalforming Centre (NMC), which is home to and owned by the Confederation of British Metalforming (CBM), has made a political appointment by welcoming its latest tenant: Sarah Coombes, MP for West Bromwich.The CBM’s chief executive Geraldine Bolton says: “Sarah has already shown in seven months that she’s a passionate advocate for manufacturing. We’ve built strong lines of communication with her so she can take our message and the views of our members back to Whitehall. Basing herself at the NMC puts Sarah in the heart of the action.”

More information https://thecbm.co.uk

International expansion and accelerating the acquisition trail will be key priorities for a UK supplier of advanced materials and metals in 2025. Goodfellow, which employs 140 people globally, has set its sights on increasing group sales to more than £30m through a combination of new material ranges, organic growth and targeting potential companies that add new capabilities, additional products or geographic reach.CEO Simon Kenney believes last year’s investment in ERP software and the launch of a new intuitive website will be key to achieving these aims.

More information www.goodfellow.com

Global automotive automatic transmission manufacturer JATCO Ltd has provided a boost to the UK automotive industry by officially opening a new factory, creating up to 183 jobs.Situated on the International Advanced Manufacturing Park, Sunderland, the factory will produce electrified powertrains for the nearby Nissanplant (NMUK).

The 138,840 ft² facility represents a £48.7m investment into the UK. JATCO UK hopes to reach a production capacity of 340,000 units from its Sunderland plant.Localisation to NMUK models will begin from 2026, when the facility is scheduled for completion. The new facility was supported by a grant from the UK Government.

More information www.nissan-europe.com

On 4-6 February 2025 at the Farnborough International Exhibition Centre, Southern Manufacturing & Electronics will once again show why it has become a major pan-European showcase for the latestadvances in machinery, production equipment, electronics production, tooling and components, as well as subcontract services. Over 9000 visitors are expected to attend.

Southern Manufacturing & Electronics is a dynamic hub where industry leaders, innovators and experts converge to share ideas, discover new technologies, and forge long-lasting partnerships. Visitors will gain valuable insights through technical seminars, the potential to connect with over 500 leading suppliers, and hands-on demonstration of solutions that can transform operations at manufacturing businesses.

More information www.southern-manufacturing-electronics.com