In this newsletter

	Welcome from Patrick Cullen - Managing Director, Sustainable Drainage Systems
	Case study - PB Design
	Spotlight on Paul White, Managing Director, Marshfield Bakery
	Events and Workshops
	News

2009 was a tough year but in looking ahead manufacturers in the South West are well placed, in terms of their geography and knowledge base, to embrace both the challenges and opportunities that 2010 will bring.

I feel that manufacturing in the UK needs to go back to basics and as a country we should be looking to create employment wherever we can. Having a strong team will be key for the next twelve months and there are a lot of good people in the market. We really need to be taking advantage of the raft of home-grown talent to build a bigger and better manufacturing legacy for the region.

Another opportunity for manufacturers coming out of the recession is expanding markets and exporting. Many people are outsourcing to re-import; what businesses should be doing is taking their products back and growing the manufacturing workforce. This is certainly something that we have started to do at Sustainable Drainage Systems; we have closed the manufacturing loop and now produce all of our own recycled PVC for use within the business which has created new jobs, saved time and boosted our bottom line.

Partnerships will also be important in 2010, whether it is through forging strategic commercial partnerships or building strong partnerships with further education bodies. These fruitful partnerships will help businesses make the most of the opportunities ahead and help bring manufacturing back to the UK.

Read on for more insight on the journey ahead, opportunities in advanced manufacturing, the low carbon economy and how MAS-SW can provide you with hands-on support to ensure 2010 is a prosperous year for you and your business.

Patrick Cullen
Managing Director,
Sustainable Drainage Systems

"We are very fortunate and have great aspirations for the future - nevertheless we must not be complacent and will certainly be consolidating our lean practices, and with the help of MAS-SW thinking smarter to further improve our operations"
Tim Broomfield -Managing Director, PB Design

Spotlight:

Spotlight on on Paul White

Managing Director
Marshfield Bakery

What excites you about your day-to-day work?

Unpredictability! Never a dull moment, always something new to attend to!

In a typical day, what is guaranteed to put a smile on your face?

New orders from new customers. Overdraft under the limit!

How has your business coped through the tough economic conditions?

Fairly well, although cashflow is a headache. We are an expanding business so cashflow is always going to be difficult even if we were not in challenging economic conditions.

How are you preparing yourself for the year ahead?

The same as always, looking for new business and trying to cut overheads and becoming more efficient production-wise without losing our handmade ethos.

What makes your company stand out from the rest? How do you beat the competition?

We think we have a niche market with some of our products and we need to expand that market. Our fairly high margins allow us to offer some leeway on prices to our customers if they need it, in order to keep the business in difficult times.

What has been your greatest achievement in the last year?

Keeping the bank quiet! Seriously, from a personal point of view, sourcing new equipment at very good prices.

Who is your hero?

No particular person, but the "wartime generation" who kept going no matter how hard times were, and mostly did it with optimism! It always comes out ok in the end!

Would you like to appear in next month’s e-Newsletter in the Spotlight section? We are looking for manufacturers who are willing to answer eight simple questions about their day-to-day role. More than 10,000 people worldwide read the monthly e-Newsletter, so if you would like to share your thoughts on working in manufacturing or tell us more about your role, email the editorial team on info@swmas.co.uk

Case Study:

PB Design - fully charged for 2010

Clevedon-based PB Design, a manufacturer of battery chargers, has successfully weathered the recession by implementing lean initiatives through hands-on support from the Manufacturing Advisory Service in the South West (MAS-SW).

Annual sales have already increased by 35% in the two years to 2009. At the same time the Team managed to boost profits by 70% by improving operating efficiencies.

The battery chargers maintain critical energy supplies for EDF Energy, Western Power and the National Grid, as well as the railway industry and London Underground.

Tim Broomfield, PB Design's Managing Director, said: "2009 has unfortunately been a difficult year for many businesses, but making sure that we implemented lean business practices certainly helped us to stay ahead of the game. It also enabled us to satisfy our increasing customer demand by improving our manufacturing flexibility and flow.

"When we completed an MBO we really wanted to improve efficiencies so the obvious place to go was MAS-SW. Since calling on the team for support we adopted the 5S system which helped us to decide what should be kept, where it should be kept, and how it should be stored. We have seen improved control and organisation of materials and workflow. Teamwork and morale has also been boosted and we conduct regular 5S audits to drive continuous improvement. MAS-SW has provided us with an invaluable service, particularly as we have had unlimited access to a focused MAS-SW specialist, with a wide range of experience of similar projects."

John Phillipart, Manufacturing Specialist for MAS-SW, said: "PB Design has done tremendously well through the recession. Manufacturers are constantly seeking ways to improve their bottom line, enhance production capability and build competitiveness. Adopting the 5S system and other lean manufacturing tools and techniques can really help."

PB Design expects to see continued growth in the first half of 2010 and will be looking to develop its exports, with orders already secured from the Middle East.

Tim Broomfield concluded: "We are very fortunate and have great aspirations for the future - nevertheless we must not be complacent and will certainly be consolidating our lean practices, and with the help of MAS-SW thinking smarter to further improve our operations."

News:

What will the New Year bring for manufacturers in the South West?

Big Ben has long since chimed to ring in the New Year and manufacturers in the South West might well be wondering what 2010 has in store for them. However, rather than doom and gloom, many industry commentators are heralding a new dawn for the sector, particularly for those willing to take advantage of opportunities offered by the growing low carbon economy and advanced manufacturing.

Over the last few years, scaremongers have regularly declared that the economic downturn and success of emerging markets was about to finish off the sector. The reality, however, is a lot more encouraging, particularly in the South West where many prominent and cutting-edge manufacturers are located.

The South West is already recognised in Europe as a centre for marine business with the sector generating a turnover of £1.3 billion and comprising some 2,700 companies. The region is also home to the EU's largest concentration of aerospace-related companies, with more than 700 directly engaged in the design or manufacture of aviation parts and systems, and houses over one third of the UK's semiconductor designers. Encouragingly, the South West is also leading the field when it comes to survival rates for businesses with the highest figure of all regions in the UK.

Looking ahead

But how do the region's manufacturers feel about their future? The South West Manufacturing Barometer, compiled by the Manufacturing Advisory Service in the South West (MAS-SW), recently indicated that manufacturers in the region are optimistic for what lies ahead in 2010. Results reveal that 54 per cent of manufacturers in the region have seen a rise in enquiry levels compared to six months ago whilst 51 per cent expect to see a further increase in sales over the next six months.

Simon Howes, Business Development Director for MAS-SW, comments: "While South West manufacturers are optimistic about what lies ahead in 2010, the barometer did expose a lack of awareness regarding the potential for business growth in new areas such as low carbon technologies. Nearly 70 per cent of those interviewed said that the emerging low carbon market would have no impact on their business despite the fact that the South West of England was declared the UK's first Low Carbon Economic Area in July 2009.

"As a result of becoming a Low Carbon Economic Area, the UK Government has declared its commitment to make £19.5 million available to the region as part of a £100 million two-year programme in marine renewables - investment that manufacturers can definitely capitalise on."

To read more click here

Funding available for SMEs to improve health and staff welfare

Small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) and local partnerships can now bid for a share of £4million available over the next two years, to fund innovative projects to improve the health and welfare of their workers. The Health Work and Well-being (HWWB) Challenge Fund is a competitive grant scheme from the Department for Work and Pensions, established to encourage innovative projects that improve employees' health and welfare at work, with a particular focus on practical initiatives for employees' mental well-being. SMEs and local partnerships are eligible to apply to the Challenge Fund for grants of between £1,000 and £50,000. The HWWB Challenge Fund is available until 31 March 2011 with two rounds of funding. The deadline for the first roundof funding (for an award in April 2010 to March 2011) is 31 December 2009. For more details, including project criteria, guidance for entries and an Expression of Interest form, go to: www.workingforhealth.gov.uk

Bank launches £1bn manufacturing jobs fund

RBS and NatWest have set up a £1 billion fund in an attempt to support industry and create manufacturing jobs.

The sector has been affected more than most by the economic slowdown, with many manufacturing job losses since the start of the recession.

RBS's fund will allow companies to take out loans to pay for their projects, with an option to defer payment for three years.

Peter Ibbetson, Chairman of business banking at RBS and NatWest, said the rates on offer were the best on the market.

However, Head of Manufacturing at BDO Tom Lawton warned more manufacturing job losses could be on the way.

He said: "Manufacturers will need to continue to implement cost-cutting measures, including staff reductions, to maintain profits in what will continue to be a very challenging market."

Figures released this week by the Office for National Statistics reveal output rose in just three of the 13 manufacturing sub-sectors and fell in ten in November.

However, last month, the Purchasing Managers' Index for UK manufacturing showed improvement in the sector was continuing, registering a two-year high.

Keeping the research readies

HM Revenue & Customs has released data which shows how many companies have claimed under its research and development tax credit scheme since its inception at the beginning of last decade.

To read more click here

Nuclear New Build: 2010 Nuclear's Next Generation

The UK is at the hub of a global nuclear renaissance. With the potential of a new-build fleet of power stations and world-leading innovation in legacy waste, Britain's place at the forefront of civil nuclear development is unquestioned.

In recognition of the UK's place on the international stage it is appropriate that London (Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre Westminster, London2-3 March 2010) hosts what could be the key nuclear conference of the new decade. Issues such as supply chain, global opportunities, the skills gap, regulation, decommissioning and best practice will be discussed in carefully-crafted sessions featuring some of the very best international speakers.

The conference will not only focus on the technical but also the emotional. Hearts and minds are key and sessions on public opinion, the political outlook for nuclear development and how young people of today view the industry will all be important strands.

For more information please click here

MAS-SW Events and Workshops

	You can now book your place at South West MAS events online. Simply visit the South West MAS website, provide your details and you will receive confirmation of your booking, be able to pay online and download maps and directions. You can also quickly see what events you've attended in the past.

A 'New Year New Opportunities' workshop for South West manufacturers

Developing new products or improving your current range may not be your top priority right now but it is VITAL to continually develop your offering and add value to your markets to stay ahead of the competition.

With this in mind, the Manufacturing Advisory Service in the South West (MAS-SW), Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) and UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) have joined forces to bring you a series of practical, informative "Fit for the Future" workshops to support manufacturers looking to gain competitive advantage.

For more information or to book please phone 0845 6083838 or email info@swmas.co.uk.

Thursday 11th February 2010, 9:00am - 2:00pm, Bournemouth AFC

Thursday 11th March 2010, 9am - 2pm, Moorland Links Hotel, Plymouth

Productivity and Competitiveness

Making the most of the BIT Programme. Are you a key player in a manufacturing company?

Join MAS-SW for this hands-on session where you will discover the benefits of the Productivity and Competitiveness (PAC) process, enabling you to improve delivery against Quality, Delivery and Cost performance at your company.

The most challenging part of any sustainable improvement programme is maintaining the momentum.

This hands-on session will be delivered by trained PAC analysts from MAS-SW.

To sign up or for more information contact Linda Middleton-Jones on 0845 608 3838 or email linda.middleton-jones@swmas.co.uk.

Friday 12th February 2010, 9:30am – 12:15pm,
Cost: £25.00 + VAT per delegate

Six Sigma Greenbelt Training (SME's)

MAS-SW is delivering a nine day classroom programme with ongoing personal coaching in proven Six Sigma techniques designed for SMEs who think 6 Sigma is too complex for them but who need the latest skills to guarantee success with key business partners.

The practice of Six Sigma enables the measuring and removing variation and waste from within functions and processes. The methodology is project focused and delivers bottom line results fast. It is specifically designed to dovetail with any Lean approaches that are already being used to enhance and multiply the results.

Module 1:

Monday 15th February; Tuesday 16th February; Wednesday 17th February 2010

Module 2:

Tuesday 16th March; Wednesday 17th March; Thursday 18th March 2010

Module 3:

Tuesday 27th April, Wednesday 28th April; Thursday 29th April 2010

Times and dates:

09:00am - 16:30pm each day

Cost: £1,000 + VAT per delegate for SME's

To sign up or for more information contact Linda Middleton-Jones on 0845 608 3838 or email linda.middleton-jones@swmas.co.uk.

Manufacturing Managers Strategic Leadership Programme

A series of Manufacturing Managers Strategic Leadership Programmes are to be held at the University of Exeter Business School on the following dates:

10th March 2010
6th April 2010
11th May 2010
17th June 2010
6th July 2010
15th September 2010

This ground-breaking, innovative programme will be relevant to individuals and businesses from manufacturing, aerospace, defence and high technology sectors who wish to develop their strategic leadership skills.

For more information or to book a place call 01392 269231 or email s.a.howard@exeter.ac.uk.

Operational Leadership Programme & Strategic Leadership Programme

If you are interested in attending Operational Leadership Programme or Strategic Leadership Programme run by University of Exeter Business School in partnership with MAS-SW, please contact Sally Howard at s.a.howard@exeter.ac.uk

Partners & Other Events

MOD Defence Suppliers Conference and Exhibition 2010 Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S) is working with MOD Defence Contracts Bulletin (MOD DCB) to produce the MOD Defence Suppliers Service Annual Conference and Exhibition 2010. For you, the supplier, this high-profile event will provide a unique arena in which you can engage directly with the entire buying chain working across the UK defence sector. Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S) is currently under a great deal of pressure to use smart acquisition practices in the procurement of all key supplies, while maintaining standards across areas such as consultancy services and the defence estates. As the MOD continues to develop its procurement strategy and make visible all commercial opportunities, there has never been more focus on the importance of the working relationships between the MOD, Prime Contractors and all active and potential first and second-tier suppliers. For more information or to book please email bip@bipsolutions.com. 25th February 2010, 9:00am – 6:00pm, Thistle Hotel, Bristol


Lord Davies of Abersoch CBE to visit Bristol Lord Davies, Minister for Trade, Investment and Small Business, will be visiting Bristol on 21st January and would like to hear your views on what Government can do to help South West companies compete in the international marketplace. Ahead of his visit, please email us your questions for Lord Davies and these will be put to him at a Q&A event on the day and make his answers available online afterwards. To email your questions click here.


UK Offshore Wind Supply Chain Conference In conjunction with The Crown Estate, the South West Regional Development Agency and Regen SW are hosting a free business networking event in Bristol on 9th March. The deployment of offshore wind is expected to accelerate over the next decade with a total potential capacity of over 40 GW currently being planned across the UK (25 GW within the Round 3 offshore wind leasing round). The challenge to deliver this programme is enormous and will make offshore wind in the UK one of the world's largest infrastructure projects with a potential investment by 2020 of over £100 billion. This event is one of a series of regional events that are being held to mark the beginning of the development phase of the Round 3 wind farm leases. For more information or to book please click here. Tuesday 9th March 2010, 9:00am-6:00pm, at @ Bristol,


Further News Articles

NetRegs

For more information on the latest free environmental guidance for small and medium-sized businesses in the UK visit their website

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


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