THIS WEEK’S HIGHLIGHTS

UK Battery Manufacturing Training

Helping to bridge a national skills gap that is challenging manufacturers, Atlas Copco Tools and Industrial Assembly Solutions is actively supporting a new training initiative for advanced battery manufacturing, which is the UK’s first fully accredited and industry-backed programme.

Launched by University College Birmingham, in partnership with City & Guilds and Innovate UK, the Battery Manufacturing Skills Pathway (B-MSP) is the first of its kind to be developed with the direct involvement of industry, to tackle a critical skills deficit in UK battery manufacturing. From day one, B-MSP students interact with live production equipment used in gigafactories and the broader supply chain, building their capabilities, confidence and workforce readiness.

More information www.atlascopco.com/en-uk/itba

BAE invests in start-up

BAE Systems has made a strategic investment in Oxford Dynamics, a UK-based deep-tech start-up specialising in AI and robotics, as part of its ongoing drive to identify and harness innovative technologies for rapid deployment. The collaboration will see BAE Systems combine its defence and security knowledge with Oxford Dynamics’ AI-driven data expertise to explore ways to deliver next-generation advantages to the UK and its allies across all domains of the modern battlespace; air, land, sea, space and cyber. The first stage of this work will embed the company’s AI technology into BAE Systems’ Prophesea platformMore information www.baesystems.com/digital 

Bridge Engineers Set to Fast Track Growth

A company that has helped deliver some of the UK’s most high-profile bridge infrastructure projects has raised almost £1.4m in debt funding to support its further growth. The funding for EKSPAN is the largest loan to date from NPIF II – Mercia Debt Finance. The Sheffield-based business now plans to expand its capabilities and increase turnover by 50% in the next three years.

Max Angerer, managing director of EKSPAN, says: “This support from NPIF II will allow us to accelerate our growth plans, expand our capabilities here in Sheffield and strengthen our position as the leading independent bridge engineering specialist in the north. Our goal is to increase turnover and continue delivering some of the UK’s most challenging and innovative bridge projects.”

More information www.mercia.co.uk

Over 900 Exhibitors Confirmed for BIEMH

With seven months to go, more than 900 exhibiting companies have already confirmed their participation in the 33rd edition of the BIEMH international machine tool exhibition, where they will showcase advanced technology and present cutting-edge innovations in manufacturing. From 2 to 6 March 2026, Bilbao Exhibition Centre will host this major industry event.

As a benchmark event in advanced manufacturing, BIEMH 2026 will feature a specific area devoted to automation, robotics and digitalisation, key sectors for driving industrial efficiency, flexibility and competitiveness. Following their prominent role in the last edition, these technologies will once again occupy a prominent place in this year’s show, within a specific area that will bring together the latest applied solutions.

More information www.bit.ly/45a67cW

Key European role for FANUC’s Bouchier

Tom Bouchier, managing director of factory automation specialist FANUC UK and FANUC Ireland, will take on the additional role of northern Europe co-ordinator, vice president FANUC Europe, from 1 September 2025. FANUC says this strategic appointment demonstrates its commitment to strengthening the company’s European sales strategy and reinforcing collaboration across the region.

In his expanded remit, Bouchier will provide co-ordination and guidance across northern Europe, supporting FANUC UK’s continued growth and alignment with the company’s broader European goals. He says: “In my expanded role, I’m looking forward to aligning the goals and aims of FANUC UK and FANUC Ireland with those of FANUC EU, bridging the gap towards a more successful, innovative and productive manufacturing sector.”

More information www.fanuc.eu