SLM ’ s focus on technology also drives the corporate attitude to sustainability . To SLM , sustainability is about much more than automatic light switches or solar panels . Sam explains : “ We make what is needed , when it ’ s needed , using only the necessary material . There is a knock-on effect further down the supply chain too . This is the exciting part about sustainability to me , changing the whole manufacturing methodology , using less energy , and then , the end-use application again using less energy . Every single aspect of it is driving a better future for the planet , and that is what I prefer to focus on .”
To reinforce this vision for the future of manufacturing , Sam is excited to discuss the company ’ s recent acquisition by Nikon : “ First and foremost , this is a marriage made in heaven . Like us , the senior leadership of Nikon also comprises engineers . We have made great progress as an independent business , pushing our technology to the limits , but what this gives us is another level of possibilities to really drive the future of our technology . “ I have been through a few acquisitions in my career . Normally , there ’ s a level of nervousness in the team , but we don ’ t have that . People are just excited by the opportunity . While most people have an awareness of Nikon ’ s heritage , many don ’ t appreciate the sheer scope of its work . We are combining our experience , research and development capability to push opto-electronics to the next level . This is essentially what our technology is built around : the capability to harness , direct , and utilize energy . Quite what that will mean for our products , and customers , is something that we will work on together .”
The business was also excited to showcase a new product at the recent AM industry ’ s main
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