UK NEWS

FANUC UK Names Dan Fisher as Head of Sales

FANUC UK has appointed Dan Fisher as the company’s new head of sales. Taking over from Oliver Selby, who has transitioned to the newly created position of strategic key account manager – aerospace & defence, Fisher is recognised for his deep knowledge of manufacturing automation and ability to help unlock greater efficiency, productivity and competitiveness. His expertise will support FANUC UK’s continued growth across a range of industries. In his previous role within FANUC UK’s Business Development division, Fisher worked with customers, system integrator partners and manufacturers across many sectors.  

More information www.fanuc.eu 

PSL Datatrack Relocates to Support Future Growth

PSL Datatrack has relocated to new headquarters in Bracknell, marking the next chapter in the company’s continued growth as a specialist provider of production control software for subcontract engineering shops. After 16 successful years at Lily Hill House, PSL Datatrack has moved to Access Business Centre, Willoughby Road, Bracknell. The move to larger, more modern premises provides additional space to support future expansion while enhancing the working environment for employees and ensuring the company remains well positioned to meet the evolving needs of customers. 

More information www.psldatatrack.com 

Innovate UK Selects Digital Catapult to Deliver A5G-TA

Digital Catapult, the UK deep-tech innovation organisation, has been selected by Innovate UK to deliver the Assured 5G Technical Authority (A5G-TA), supporting the development and adoption of secure, private 5G networks across critical areas of the UK economy. It will also deliver the UK’s first auditing and assurance framework for AI-native telecoms networks. 

  

Following the announcement, Digital Catapult will lead A5G-TA to deliver and establish a vendor-neutral assurance capability for ‘Stand-alone Non-Public Networks’ (SNPNs), driving advanced 5G adoption through independent testing, validation and technical evidence to build confidence in the practical application of advanced connectivity technologies. It will also work to develop the data foundations for future assurance frameworks for Telecom AI. 

More information www.tinyurl.com/35rt25ks 

  

Fully UK-Built Islander Begins Ground Testing

The first Islander to be fully built in the UK since Britten-Norman repatriated production to Bembridge on the Isle of Wight has begun its ground test programme ahead of a planned first flight this month. Delivery to the Falkland Islands Government Air Service (FIGAS) will follow completion of flight testing and customer preparation.  

Behind this aircraft, the production line is already at work. A second airframe is progressing through the line and components for follow-on aircraft are in manufacture. Moreover, the company is establishing a continuous production cadence at Bembridge, supported by investment in new machinery, tooling and facilities – and a workforce that has grown by more than 40% since production was reshored.  

More information https://britten-norman.com 

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