The University of Sheffield AMRC launched a new policy paper at last month’s Farnborough International Airshow, calling for a national five-year mission to secure the future of the UK’s £14.3bn aerospace sector and its 100,000 highly skilled jobs. With global demand soaring toward an estimated 65,000 new aircraft by 2050, UK suppliers must rapidly adopt advanced manufacturing technologies by 2030 to win major contracts as aviation primes prepare to select industrial partners for next-generation fleets.

The policy paper outlines three essential steps to secure UK aerospace leadership, focusing on long-term Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI) funding, targeted incentives to scale new manufacturing capabilities for supply chain and national skills frameworks tailored for high-rate production.

More information www.amrc.co.uk

Bowers Group has appointed Jon Crossland as its new managing director, effective July 2026. He joins with an outstanding track record of international leadership across engineering, manufacturing, operations and supply chain management, bringing decades of experience leading global businesses and delivering sustainable growth.

“Bowers Group has an exceptional heritage, a highly respected portfolio of precision metrology brands and a talented team with a strong reputation for quality and innovation,” he says. “I look forward to working with colleagues, customers and partners around the world to build on these foundations, accelerate growth and continue delivering world-class solutions that help manufacturers achieve the highest standards of precision.”

More information www.bowersgroup.co.uk

PW Machine Services of Barnsley is now the Schröder Group’s official distribution partner in the UK. As an expert in laser cutting and automation solutions, PW Machine Services offers UK industry robust access to the sheet metal processing industry. The motorised folding machines from Bavaria, Germany-based company Hans Schröder Maschinenbau GmbH, represent a perfect addition to the portfolio.

“Schröder’s industrial folding machines are powerful, precise, gentle on surfaces, easier to operate than press brakes, and allow for largely automated operation without additional equipment,” states Kevin Hudson, one of MDs at PW Machine Services. Looking ahead, plans are already in place to make Schröder motorised shears also available across the UK via PW Machine.

More information www.schroedergroup.eu

Colchester Machine Tool Solutions (CMTS) has entered a new strategic partnership with RAM Engineering & Tooling (RAMET), appointing the business as its exclusive distribution partner for Scotland. Through its Colchester, Harrison and Pratt Burnerd brands, the company offers a wide portfolio of manual and CNC lathes, milling machines, automation systems, and work-holding solutions designed to improve productivity and precision.

Based in Kirriemuir, Angus, RAMET is a specialist technical sales and support organisation focused on delivering high-quality CNC machine tools and manufacturing solutions across the UK. Under the new agreement, RAMET will provide full sales and support coverage for Colchester Machine Tool Solutions products across Scotland, including technical consultation, project delivery and aftersales service.

More information www.colchester.co.uk