UK NEWS

£1m for digital efforts

Made Smarter, the Government-backed digital adoption programme, has launched a new £1m funding round to support technology projects among SME manufacturers in the northwest. The initiative is offering match-funded grants of up to £20,000 to help SMEs adopt advanced technologies including robotics, automation, IoT, AI and additive manufacturing. Businesses registering with the programme gain access to a suite of support, including fully funded technology advice, digital roadmap development, leadership and skills training, and student placement opportunities.

More information www.madesmarter.uk

Council launches in Kent to tackle skills gap

A wide range of local organisations came together recently to explore practical ways to collaborate in addressing current and future job vacancies, while also tackling local skills shortages. Hosted at North Kent College’s Gravesend Campus, the event marked the official launch of the Kent & Medway Industry4Council, which unites employers from the engineering and manufacturing sectors. The new partnership offers a practical forum for employers to collaborate with further and higher education institutions, as well as independent training providers.

More information www.northkent.ac.uk

Heathrow targets Black Country manufacturers

Black Country manufacturers are being encouraged to tap into the capacity of Heathrow Airport in a bid to boost global opportunities. Bosses at the UK’s busiest airport want to work with Black Country Chamber of Commerce members to understand the challenges businesses face when exporting, and to help them take advantage of the cargo routes available. An exporting roundtable to raise awareness of the opportunities will take place at Wolverhampton-based Zaun Ltd on 7 May. It will give up to 15 local firms the opportunity to provide intelligence on exporting, key international markets and barriers to entry.

Book a place gailarnold@blackcountrychamber.co.uk

Bruderer completes Telford facility

Bruderer, a manufacturer of precision high-speed presses, has reinforced its commitment to the future of UK manufacturing by investing heavily in the construction of a state-of-the-art site in Telford. The company has moved its entire operation from its base in Luton to the modern 10,000 sq m facility.

Described as Bruderer’s ‘centre of manufacturing excellence’, the new building offers a competence centre capable of giving access to live demonstrations of new presses, fully certified pre-owned machines and fully integrated turnkey solutions. The move has also seen Bruderer UK increase its direct workforce to 14 as it looks to drive innovation in the production of pressed components.

More information www.bruderer.co.uk

Cobra Tool sold to YAD Capital

A long-established manufacturing business described by its acquirer as “a true gem” has been sold to YAD Capital Investments in a deal advised on by KBS Corporate. Cobra Tool & Die, based in Portsmouth, was founded in 1983 and has earned an excellent reputation as a manufacturer of all types of mould tools, as well as a provider of tool repair, modification and CNC machining services.

“This isn’t just another deal, it’s the beginning of a new chapter for a business with 42 years of legacy, craftsmanship and loyal customer relationships,” says Anil Daas, founder and CEO of YAD Capital Investments. “Cobra Tool & Die is a trusted name in the south, known for its precision, quality and a team of highly skilled professionals who keep things running like clockwork.”

More information www.kbscorporate.com