Editor’s Pick

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 

Citizen Names Dates For Autumn Open House

On 6-8 October 2026, Citizen Machinery will host an autumn open house at its Turning Centre of Excellence in Brierley Hill, West Midlands. The company will use the event to show manufacturers how they can streamline workflows and boost profitability using Cincom sliding-head lathes and Miyano fixed-head lathes. 
Notably, the company is extending its MACH 2026 Gateway to Japan offer of a free trip to Japan for one individual from each company that places an order at the event for a machine delivered by the end of this year. Places are limited, however, and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. There will be an abundance of technology on show that the company says will reshape manufacturers’ perception of what is possible in terms of productivity gains, lights‑out machining and return on investment.  

More information https://citizenmachinery.co.uk/open-house

NCMT Secures £13.5m NatWest Funding

Coventry-based machine tool supplier NCMT has secured a major new banking deal to support its management buyout and accelerate growth in the UK’s advanced manufacturing sector. The business has agreed a new primary banking relationship with NatWest, including an £8.3m revolving credit facility and a £4m bond facility, plus foreign exchange and operational support, taking total facilities to £13.5m.

The package is designed to give the management team the financial headroom to modernise the business, invest in innovation and support larger, more complex contracts in the UK and overseas. NCMT has already used part of the funding to complete a management buyout from its previous shareholders, putting control firmly in the hands of the existing leadership team and setting the company up for its next phase of growth.

More information www.natwestgroup.com

E-Motorbike Maker Gears Up Exports With UKEF Backing

A West Midlands electric motorbike specialist has secured a £3m trade finance facility, backed by UK Export Finance (UKEF), to export to new and growing markets around the world, supporting British supply chains and helping to cut emissions. Coventry-based Maeving has received the trade financing from HSBC UK to invest in production capacity and meet growing demand from the US, Germany and France

With the support of multi-million-pound trade financing guaranteed by UKEF, the business is set to create 13 new jobs as part of its local expansion plans. The company, which makes over 70% of its electric motorbike components in the UK, will also look to expand into further European markets in the future.

More information www.maeving.com

Trumpf Acquiring Cutlite Penta Business

Trumpf, a Germany-headquartered machine tool and laser technology specialist, and

Cutlite, an Italian manufacturer of 2D laser machines, are joining forces and entering a strategic partnership. To this end, Trumpf is acquiring the business of Cutlite Penta SpA from its parent company, El.En. SpA.

The move means Trumpf is expanding its offer for customers in the field of customised, large-format, very high-power laser cutting and oversize tube machines. Cutlite will remain an independent brand with its own manufacturing, sales and service facilities, and continue to develop and manufacture custom large-format cutting systems. Trumpf plans to enhance Cutlite’s capabilities, expanding the group’s ability to serve the full spectrum of sheet metal fabrication. 

More information www.cutlitepenta.com/en