The National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS) has formed a network that brings together leading Scottish research, innovation, education and training providers to help unlock manufacturing innovation and drive growth in the sector. Providing an open channel to share knowledge, capability and ideas, the network is accessible to all organisations across the nation that can contribute to creating a sustainable and vibrant future for the Scottish manufacturing and engineering community. Companies will also be able to access the capability partners’ own networks, including the High Value Manufacturing Catapult.

For further information
www.nmis.scot

Schmitz Cargobull, a European manufacturer of semi-trailers, is opening a new factory in Manchester to build customised vehicles for UK and Irish operators. CEO Andreas Schmitz says: “The UK is a key transport and logistics market for us, as well as an important semi-trailer and rigid truck market. With the new plant we are moving closer to our customers and ensuring that we can address their needs by offering the most reliable chassis and a proven locally-produced body.” Manufacturing at the 7,500 sq m facility in Wythenshawe will start this summer with a capacity of 50 units per week.

For further information
www.cargobull.com

A former Sheffield Forgemasters apprentice now sits on the company’s board of directors as chief operating officer (COO). Gareth Barker joined in 1996 as an apprentice engineer and since progressed through the company, working across all production divisions in various managerial roles. He now takes overall responsibility for: all site operations; technical and quality output; health, safety and the environment; and the implementation of specific new plant investments. Barker will work with the company’s CEO, CFO and non-executive directors to shape and develop the future of the business.

For further information
www.sheffieldforgemasters.com

The MTC’s Tilly Shilling Initiative is hosting a series of virtual webinars to promote diversity and inclusivity in manufacturing. A total of seven webinars, run in conjunction with OAS, aim to encourage diversity, inclusion and family balance in STEM and the engineering community. At the first event, the MTC discussed the importance of LGBT+ diversity in manufacturing, and this webinar is now available on demand. The second event on 23 June will discuss the role of women in engineering, with other events set to cover employability, neurodiversity, the role of parents, racial diversity and authenticity in the workplace.

For further information www.the-mtc.org

Crestchic Loadbanks, a UK-headquartered manufacturer of load testing equipment, has announced plans to extend its factory, adding 60% to the current site footprint, while also recruiting a further 30 people. Work is officially due to commence in August 2021, with an anticipated nine-month build time. The company, based in Burton-on-Trent, has bucked the trend during the recent pandemic, resulting in the need to expand and recruit new talent. Paul Brickman, sales and marketing director at Crestchic, says: “The investments we are making in our business will help to meet increased demand from our core sectors.”

For further information
www.crestchicloadbanks.com