Main Interview companies are offering manufacturing as a service . So , rather than investing in a CNC machine , manufacturers can subcontract certain capabilities . I think this is just one example of the ways in which manufacturing is going to evolve .
Championing manufacturing
“ Likewise , manufacturers are going to have to start to look at the circular economy . This is not simply about going green . From reducing waste to repurposing materials and products , there are a number of ways in which businesses can benefit from a circular economy . By looking at operational and equipment efficiencies , there are ways to increase the lifespan of machinery and products to make cost savings .
“ There are government grants available for those organizations adopting the circular economy , which is a further opportunity . Of course , there is also a competitive advantage to be had . Companies that demonstrate their green credentials are appealing to the more conscious buyer . Just as other businesses are looking at their supply chains , so too is Sage , and particularly in terms of carbon accounting . Businesses will need to be aware of considerations such as these moving forward .
“ A final trend is how organizations will access customers directly , almost cutting out some of the expensive middle men along the way . I think that is going to be something in which we see an acceleration . I don ’ t think everybody can simply put their products on the web for consumers to purchase , but the idea of going more directly to your buyer is certainly going to be quite appealing .
“ This aligns with the growing demand for customization . If I buy a pair of trainers today from Nike or Adidas , for example , I don ’ t want the same thing as everybody else . I want to tailor it slightly , add my initials to it or do something different . Manufacturers are going to have to figure out how they are going to support that which means they are going to have to invest in modular design . So , the circular economy won ’ t just help them save money , it will help them offer consumer choice ,” he adds .
Rob is keen to shine a light on the importance of promoting the UK manufacturing industry .
“ As of 2021 , the fastest growing areas were electric vehicles , renewable energy , advanced materials , like carbon fiber , and bio techs . We have some of the best bio tech companies and manufacturing capabilities in the world . What we fall down on is our ability to positively promote the industry . To do this , we need more apprenticeship programs , engineering courses and technical training .
“ We have to change the image of manufacturing , and bring diversity into the industry . While we , of course , need to see more female engineers , we also need to figure out how we introduce more diversity in all its guises . People with neurodiversity , for example , often have an enhanced attention to detail , and as such , can be incredibly successful in manufacturing environments . Furthermore , apprenticeships shouldn ’ t just be for people at the start of their careers . One of our customers boasts an incredible apprenticeship program , which is open to people from the ages of 16 to 65 .
“ This business is encouraging people who are traditionally seen as too old back into the workforce because these are people who are great at assembling and precision manufacturing .
“ It is time to raise the profile of manufacturing ,” Rob concludes . “ The UK is a mega manufacturing hub of innovation . Let ’ s change the perception of manufacturing , and this country will blow anybody away in terms of innovation , and technological advancement . We are a fantastic component of all things that are wonderful in manufacturing .” ■
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