Government-backed programme empowers manufacturers to embrace digital transformation, creating 1,850 new jobs and upskilling 3,300 workers.
Made Smarter, the movement accelerating the digital transformation of SME manufacturers, has reached a landmark — funding its 400th technology adoption project in the North West.
The milestone was achieved after 25 more companies secured support to invest in digital tools and systems.
Over the last seven years, manufacturers have accessed £7.4 million in matched funding from the government-backed, industry-led programme. This has unlocked £26 million of investment in technologies ranging from sensors and robotics to 3D printing and artificial intelligence.
These investments are forecast to generate more than 1,850 new jobs and upskill 3,300 existing roles, while delivering a £276 million boost to the regional economy over the next three years.
Commenting on the milestone, Donna Edwards, Programme Director of Made Smarter, said: “Reaching our 400th funded technology project is a proud milestone for Made Smarter and a powerful demonstration of what manufacturers in the North West can achieve with the right support.
“Over the last seven years, we’ve seen hundreds of SMEs take confident steps towards digitalisation, boosting productivity, creating jobs, and laying the groundwork for long-term growth.
“What excites me most is that this is just the beginning. With every new project, we’re building a stronger, smarter manufacturing base — better equipped to meet the challenges of tomorrow and lead the way in innovation, resilience, and sustainability.”
Among the latest wave of manufacturers to secure grants are businesses spanning a diverse range of sectors.
In furniture and joinery, support has been awarded to:
- Creative Joinery + Design in Brampton, specialists in bespoke commercial furniture and interior play areas;
- Parkdale Joinery (trading as English and Wood), based in Preston, producers of high-end kitchens and architectural joinery;
- H Miller Bros in Liverpool, manufacturers of hardwood kitchens; and
- Doorstore (Wirral) Limited in Birkenhead, specialists in UPVC, composite, and wooden doors.
We’ve always prided ourselves on innovation and creativity, but introducing large-format 3D printing has taken that to a new level. The impact on our business is huge. It increases our production capacity, gives us the confidence to explore new markets and offer rapid prototyping services, and will support the creation of new jobs while upskilling our existing team.
Peter and Christopher Johnson, Co-owners of Creative Joinery + Design,
In engineering and precision manufacturing, funding has gone to:
- Framos Fabrications, based in Failsworth, experts in metal fabrications;
- Reverse Engineering North West Limited (RENWL) in Preston, specialists in precision machining;
- AR Technical Engineering Ltd of Carlisle, producers of industrial pipework and packaged pipe systems; and
- Steely Products in Salford, makers of tubular steel products.
The support from Made Smarter has been instrumental in helping us take a significant step forward. Investing in the CNC fibre laser cutting machine means we can bring a key subcontracted process in-house, improving efficiency and creating a new subsidiary. This move will not only strengthen our capabilities, but also generate up to five new skilled jobs here in Preston, securing our growth for the future.
Paul Bimpson, Owner and Managing Director of RENWL,
In food and drink manufacturing, the programme is supporting:
- Blazing Limited of Bolton, makers of condiments and food coatings; and
- The Bubble Panda Limited in Manchester, specialists in bubble tea kits.
We truly appreciate the support and opportunities that the Made Smarter programme offers to a business like ours. Its contribution towards our investment in automation is a pivotal step in our growth journey.
Mohammad Idrees, Managing Director of Blazing Limited
In construction, Red Open Limited in Neston, who manufacture aluminium windows, doors, and curtain walling systems, were among the grant recipients. In chemicals and pharmaceuticals, Ashe Morris Ltd, trading as AM Technology in Runcorn, received backing to develop continuous flow reactors for fine chemical and pharmaceutical production. In packaging, Surepac Limited in Liverpool and Leighton Packaging Limited in Leigh — both experts in cardboard packaging solutions — secured investment to modernise their processes.
In consumer goods and lifestyle, the following businesses benefited from support:
- The Eclectic Lifestyle Company Limited in Chester, producers of fragrances and lifestyle products;
- Wawwa Limited in Manchester, a sustainable clothing brand; and
- Sona Shades Limited of Preston, manufacturers of smart blinds.
John Pattinson, Owner of The Eclectic Lifestyle Company, said: “Without Made Smarter’s advice and funding, we simply couldn’t have made this investment. Technology is a catalyst for our ambitions, but it's our people — family and trusted colleagues — who are driving this change. We’re growing sustainably, and together.”
In printing and associated services, support went to:
- Birtwell & Co. Limited in Accrington, leading trade printers; and
- Waterloo Business Management Ltd in Oldham, specialists in printer consumables destruction and recycling.
Finally, grants were awarded to a range of specialist manufacturers, including:
- Jetchem Systems Ltd in Ramsbottom, producers of high-pressure water jetting equipment;
- Darlington EMS Limited in Stockport, manufacturers of electronics for automotive and lifting equipment;
- Approved Hydraulics Limited, also in Stockport, suppliers of hydraulic equipment and components;
- D Squared Product Development Ltd of Liverpool, a design, engineering, and manufacturing consultancy;
- Gas Safe Europe Limited in Chester, manufacturers of safety testing products for the gas industry; and
- Eveque Leisure Equipment, based in Northwich, manufacturers of educational sports equipment.
Made Smarter supported us in developing a clear and practical strategy. Our latest investment is a state-of-the-art UV printer. We’re now continuing to expand our manufacturing capabilities, building on that strong foundation to support future growth.
Tom Bunner, Managing Director of Eveque Leisure Equipment
As well as grant funding, Made Smarter offers SME manufacturers a range of support, including digital transformation workshops, impartial technology advice, leadership and skills training, and a digital internship programme.
To learn more about how Made Smarter can help your business to innovate and grow, register here.