Arthur Richardson
Chief Executive, MAS-SW

At this time of year, it is common to reflect on the last 12 months and to consider what lies ahead. From a manufacturing standpoint, 2009 has certainly been a challenging year but many in the region have found success amidst the turmoil.
 

Those who will remember 2009 as a positive year include companies that have opened new offices in overseas destinations; or increased turnover and improved cash flow by reverse off-shoring and bringing business back to local suppliers.

Many of the manufacturers we work with have, thanks to grants from the Carbon Trust, scrapped old power-hungry equipment and replaced it with new machinery that is cheaper and more efficient to run. Others have brought in innovative 'green' practices, such as using cooking oil to power vehicles, which has raised the environmental bar.

Manufacturers in the region have also won lucrative public sector contracts including work for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, received the Queen's Award for Innovation and seen their workplaces, teams and productivity transformed as a result of engaging with or participating in lean events or MAS-SW's Operational Leadership Programme and Strategic Management Programme.

All in all there is much to congratulate, but there is also much work to be done in 2010. In particular, there is huge opportunity for new business within the low carbon sector and also for keeping ahead of the competition through the application of advanced manufacturing. The great news is that businesses appear to have a positive outlook for 2010. The South West Manufacturing Barometer, compiled by MAS-SW, revealed that manufacturers in the region are optimistic for what lies ahead next year.

With this in mind, may I take the opportunity on behalf of the whole team, to wish you a very happy and restful festive period and a prosperous 2010. If we can assist you as you look to the New Year and to driving your business forward, please get in touch.

1) Carbon targets
To help combat global warming, the Government set challenging carbon reduction targets of 80% by 2050.

6) MAS receives £4million Government Funding Boost
The Manufacturing Advisory Service received a £4m government funding injection for nuclear and resource efficiency, under the UK Low Carbon Transition Plan. This extra funding will ultimately develop MAS' existing manufacturing support structure and make a significant positive impact when delivering specialist support to SMEs.

2) Lights out for inefficient bulbs
New regulations are coming into force to phase out incandescent light bulbs and inefficient halogen lamps in order to improve energy efficiency and reduce mercury emissions. The restrictions will be introduced in stages until only the most efficient types of bulb are left on the market by 2016.

7) New battery regulations in the UK
The Government's new regulations relating to the collection, treatment and recycling of batteries in the UK came into force on 5th May. The regulations apply to all 'producers' of batteries and accumulators. Batteries within products also count, which includes anything from household items to children's toys.

3) Scrappage scheme
The Carbon Trust launched The Big Business Refit campaign, which aims to help businesses scrap their old power-hungry equipment and replace it with new equipment that is cheaper and more efficient to run. The scheme runs until 31 March 2010.

8) New Department for Business, Innovation and Skills
The Government created a new Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) whose key role is to build Britain's capabilities to compete in the global economy. The Department was created by merging BERR and DIUS.

4) Increased funding for MAS-SW
The South West European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) announced an investment of £3.5 million over the next three years to enable the MAS-SW to continue to help local businesses compete more effectively in the marketplace.

9) Spring Budget
The Chancellor's Budget saw the announcement of a £750m strategic investment fund, a third of which was earmarked for 'green technology'.

5) Renewable energy targets
The Government released national targets of attaining 20 per cent of all the UK's energy needs from renewable or energy efficient sources by 2020.

10) New loan fund for South West businesses
As part of the drive for economic recovery, the South West Regional Development Agency (RDA) announced the launch of a £10m South West Loans Fund available to help growth-oriented business with viable business plans. Of this, £5m was available in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly and £5m for the rest of the region. The Fund plays an important role in supporting companies through the economic downturn.

MAS is the trusted provider of advice and hands-on support for manufacturers aiming to achieve sustainable success.

MAS-SW is run in partnership with:

©2009 MAS South West www.mas.bis.gov.uk/south-west. All rights reserved.
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