The UK’s SME manufacturing sector is under constant pressure to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and remain competitive in an increasingly challenging marketplace.
With rising costs and economic challenges, making the most of existing resources has never been more important.
In 2025 your business cannot afford to waste time or resources. Digital tools and automation can help businesses optimise operations, reduce downtime, and improve overall productivity.

Create a clearer picture of your business
Manufacturing inefficiencies stem from poor visibility over operations. Collecting, analysing, and integrating data from across the business – from stock levels to machine performance – allows for more informed decision-making.
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems help manufacturers consolidate business processes into a single, streamlined platform. SMEs that implement ERP solutions benefit from enhanced order tracking, reduced manual errors, and improved stock management.
Case studies show that UK manufacturers who implement digital tracking and automation see significant benefits. For example, Ipac Packing Innovations were struggling to accurately keep track of stock across their two sites. With Made Smarter’s help they implemented a WMS system into its existing ERP system, providing barcoded locations of every area across its two sites. This has created cost savings, particularly around stock levels and the increased productivity has opened up further business growth for iPac.

Save time by limiting downtime
Unplanned downtime can cost manufacturers up to £24,000 per hour, yet 80% of companies struggle to accurately quantify this impact. Beyond financial losses, downtime affects workforce morale and operational efficiency. Digital tools such as predictive maintenance systems and real-time data monitoring can help manufacturers pre-empt potential issues before they cause disruption.
Playdale, a UK play equipment manufacturer, used real-time performance data to optimise maintenance schedules, reducing downtime and improving productivity.

Reduce materials waste
An area where manufacturers can also benefit is in minimising material waste. Digital tools, such as real-time quality control and automated tracking, help businesses reduce material losses, ensuring that only necessary resources are utilised in production.

Robotics and automation for workforce efficiency
Repetitive tasks can lead to inefficiencies and disengagement among employees. By automating routine processes, businesses can free up employees to focus on higher-value tasks.
Horsforth Brewery worked with Made Smarter after identifying the need for automation in its canning line. This investment increased production capacity by 150%, rising from two hundred cans per hour to five hundred cans per hour. Importantly, the new system only requires one person to operate it, compared to the two staff members needed previously.

Save time on planning
Before making costly investments in new equipment or facilities, manufacturers can use Digital Twin technology to create virtual simulations of their factories. This approach enables better decision-making by allowing businesses to evaluate and optimise layouts before implementation. A UK aerospace manufacturer, MSM used this technology to design a state-of-the-art factory, maximising productivity while minimising costs.
Digital technology is revolutionising UK SME manufacturing by reducing costs, improving efficiency, and enhancing workforce engagement. Whether through predictive maintenance, ERP systems, or automation, businesses that embrace digital transformation will be better positioned for long-term success. With programmes like Made Smarter, SME manufacturers can access the guidance and resources needed to future-proof their operations and remain competitive in a digital-first world.
Find out how Made Smarter can help
For SMEs looking to begin their digital journey, the Made Smarter programme offers tailored support, including:
- Grant Funding opportunities to help towards the cost of invest in digital tools.
- Expert advice from Industrial Digital Technology (IDT) specialists to identify and implement the most impactful solutions.
- Leadership and Skills training to support your business in implementing change.