Industry Focus Archives - MTA

MMN are hosting a joint event with Huddersfield Health Innovation Partnership, focusing on Metrology in Healthcare. Tuesday 2 July 3-6pm 3M Buckley Innovation Centre The event will bring together speakers from NPL, the University of Huddersfield and other local leading academic institutions to discuss ongoing research on metrology in health. You will also get the […]

The Export Control Joint Unit (ECJU) has issued a new notice to exporters highlighting recently issued compound settlements for breaches of strategic export controls. Please click on the following link for more details: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/notice-to-exporters-202408-breaches-of-strategic-export-compound-settlement-issued The Export Control Joint Unit (ECJU) has issued a new notice to exporters highlighting recently issued compound settlements for breaches of […]

Government launches new free management course for small businesses . The Government has launched Help to Grow: Management Essentials, a new, free, bite-sized online course to help small businesses grow. Delivered by the Government in partnership with the Chartered Association of Business Schools, Help to Grow: Management Essentials covers the essential business concepts required to unlock […]

Did you know that 75% of organisations in the manufacturing sector admit their cyber security provider is underperforming or there’s room for improvement? This data comes from a recent study by e2e-assure.  Additionally, 78% of manufacturing organisations have experienced a cyber-attack, but only 19% consider themselves resilient. The manufacturing industry is a prime target for […]

Cyber insurance may recoup some costs, provide cyber specialists to investigate the crisis and may even pay the ransom, but there are still issues left unresolved by insurance alone. MTA partner Mitigo Cybersecurity explain why cyber insurance isn’t a substitute for cyber risk management. Why cyber insurance isn’t a substitute for cyber risk management. – […]

The MTI Awards aim to recognise and celebrate outstanding contributions to the machine tool industry. By participating, you have the opportunity to showcase your innovations, highlight best practices, and gain valuable recognition among industry peers. Additionally, the awards serve as a platform for networking and knowledge sharing, providing a unique opportunity to connect with professionals […]

For a Sustainable and prosperous UK economy to continue to grow, businesses across the UK need to thrive. The British Business Bank wants to break down particular barriers to finance so that access to finance is a level playing field for all entrepreneurs – wherever they are, whatever their gender, whatever their ethnicity. The purpose […]

Smart grants 2024 UK registered organisations can apply for a share of up to £25 million for game-changing and commercially viable research and development innovations that can significantly impact the UK economy. FIND OUT MORE AND APPLY > Innovation loans future economy: round 14 UK registered businesses can apply for loans for innovative projects with […]

April brings significant new changes in the world of employment law and Health and Safety Executive (HSE) focus areas to look out for but sometimes it’s not the new or different laws you need to be worry about – often it’s the same old areas that trip business owners up when adhering to fundamental employment […]

The latest results of the survey showed that output volumes fell in the 3 months to March* but are expected to increase in the coming period.  The fall in output was at a similar pace to that recorded in the February* survey, with a decline being recorded in 11 out of 17 sub-sectors;  of these, […]

In the release of the National Accounts for the final period oof last year which were published today by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), there were no revisions to the GDP data for the UK economy at the level of 1 decimal place at which these are quoted. This, therefore, confirmed that the UK […]

The introduction of mandatory ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) reporting is set to have significant implications for engineering businesses. Keith Davidson, Environment partner at law firm Irwin Mitchell discuss how the upcoming ESG developments, starting in 2024, will fundamentally change the business landscape for engineering companies. Recent and expected ESG developments Although the term ESG […]

UK goods exports to the EU continue to be affected by difficult business conditions including inflation, supply chain disruption and regulatory change following the UK’s departure from the EU.  According to ONS figures published on 13 March 2024, exports to the EU decreased by 1.3% in the three months to January 2024, while trade with […]

The 32nd edition of BIEMH – International Machine Tool Biennial, co-organised by BILBAO EXHIBITION CENTRE (BEC) along with AFM – Advanced Manufacturing Technologies will take place from 3rd to 7th June 2024 at BEC, Bilbao (Spain). BEC have invited the MTA Cluster to organise a delegation of businesspeople with the power to purchase the products […]

A newly-adopted EU law, the Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA), will affect exports to the EU and to Northern Ireland of a wide range of machinery when it comes into force.  The UK government notes that the CRMA will come into force in two-to-three years’ time and includes new labelling requirements regarding permanent magnets, including […]

As the MTA are member of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) we are able to join forces with Amazon in the UK for an exclusive business accelerator programme designed to help small firms innovate and grow. A cohort of up to 25 businesses will be selected to take part in the Amazon Innovation Accelerator, […]

Join MSP, Productive Machines and Nikken on the 21st March at 9.30 am for a networking event at NIKKEN Innovation Centre Europe (NICe) located on the Advanced Manufacturing Park in Rotherham. This event will showcase advanced technologies for precision engineering to optimise CNC machine set ups and produce better parts with your existing equipment. There […]

COUNTRY RISK OF NON-PAYMENT Euler Hermes Economic Research measures the risk of non-payment by companies in a given country. This risk is due to conditions or events outside any company’s control. The overall evaluation is made of two elements: Country Grade and Country Risk. The ratings are for December 2023. Country Grade is a medium-term […]

HMRC is planning to introduce a pair of important changes to the way supplementary declarations are completed and deferred duty is paid. The changes had been revealed as part of chancellor Jeremy Hunt’s 2023 Spring Budget, with this weeks’ announcement confirming the time on which they will enter into force. The Joint Customs Consultative Committee […]

The MTC have released a new report called The Future Of Manufacturing. They talk about the important of manufacturing, looking forward, what he challenges are and how the UK compare internationally. The main topic of the report is If the UK is to think bigger and make a coordinated and dedicated effort to harness the […]

This week the MTA were proud to support the National Transition Event (NTE) which brings together service leavers, veterans and families with employers to help aid successful and sustainable transfers into the civilian employment sector. Monday’s event was the largest Armed Forces transition event that has ever taken place in the UK. The day was […]

Each year, companies and professions specializing in watchmaking and jewellery, micro technologies and medical technologies meet in Switzerland for the world’s largest high precision trade show: EPHJ, which will take place at the Palexpo in Geneva from 11th to the 14th of June 2024. As one of the major players in the high precision world, […]

Please be advised that a New Work Item Proposal has been loaded to the BSI Standards Development Portal for comment. Any comments received will be submitted to the national committee PH/9 “Applied ergonomics” for consideration when deciding the UK response to the associated Standards Development Organisation. Proposal: NWIP CEN ISO/TR 9241-313 – (Draft Decision C […]

Please be advised that a New Work Item Proposal has been loaded to the BSI Standards Development Portal for comment. Any comments received will be submitted to the national committee PH/9 “Applied ergonomics” for consideration when deciding the UK response to the associated Standards Development Organisation. Proposal: ISO/PWI 9241-140.2 – Ergonomics of human-system interaction — […]

Siemens Transform is a two-day, free of charge conference and exhibition taking place at Manchester Central with focus on the economic, environmental, and societal challenges organisations are facing in the UK and Ireland. Siemens Transform is an opportunity to learn from others undergoing change, engage with a cross-sector audience, and see the latest innovative technologies […]

The government has announced updates to the Customs Declaration Service (CDS). Taking effect from 24 March 2024, some of the changes will apply to goods moving into Northern Ireland. NIREM changes The operation of the NIREM code used by some traders to declare their goods as ‘not at risk’ will function differently, as traders who […]

The Government reaffirms its commitment to the UK’s 5.6 million SMEs by setting up a new SME Business Council. Chaired by Small Business Minister, Kevin Hollinrake, the Council will work alongside the PM’s Business Council to tackle the key issues facing small firms who will be given new levels of access direct to government. Almost […]

International Machine Tool & Manufacturing Technology Exhibition 23 – 29 January 2025 Bangalore International Exhibition Centre, Bengaluru, India The Manufacturing Technologies Association (MTA) are working with the Indian Machine Tool Manufacturers’ Association (IMTMA) to promote British companies at IMTEX 2025, from 23 – 29 January 2025 at the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre, Bengaluru. The MTA […]

The British Business Bank is launching its £400 million Midlands Engine Investment Fund II today, unlocking additional funding to help smaller businesses in the West Midlands prosper and thrive. The fund will drive sustainable economic growth by supporting new and growing businesses across the whole of the Midlands, through investment strategies that best meet the […]

A report on the net zero economy – sectors working to deliver reduced emissions – found growth of 9% was achieved last year in the UK. ‘The UK’s net zero economy: The scale and geography of the net zero economy in the UK’ paints a positive picture of growth in contrast to the wider economy. […]

In the context of the upcoming European Parliamentary elections this summer, CECIMO has developed a policy recommendation document aimed at strengthening the manufacturing sector value chain.  While the UK, of course, won’t be a part of these elections, it has some useful pointers for our own electoral process which will take place sometime in the […]

The 32nd edition of BIEMH – International Machine Tool Biennial, co-organised by BILBAO EXHIBITION CENTRE (BEC) along with AFM – Advanced Manufacturing Technologies will take place from 3rd to 7th June 2024 at BEC, Bilbao (Spain). BEC have invited the MTA Cluster to organise a delegation of businesspeople with the power to purchase the products […]

At the Whitechapel Lecture Mike Wilson discussed “How robotics could re-energise UK manufacturing”. The founders said “the lecture was a fascinating insight into how manufacturing could benefit more by the introduction of robotics and how the population might find working conditions to be more beneficial”. Please click on the link below to watch the full […]

Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce (GMCC) is pleased to welcome the MTA Cluster to their next Engineering & Manufacturing Forum to be held at the GMCC in Manchester on the 15th March 2024 from 0900 – 1100. The North-West’s Aerospace and Defence industry plays a critical role in strengthening the regional economy, supporting high-quality job […]

Join MTA Associate Member, Moneypenny for this free half day seminar and networking event at their headquarters in Wrexham to gain unique insight into how you can drive efficiencies within your business. This event will bring together industry experts to discuss the latest trends, strategies, and technologies shaping the future of these sectors. There will […]

Please be advised that a New Work Item Proposal has been loaded to the BSI Standards Development Portal for comment. Any comments received will be submitted to the national committee “PH/9 “Applied ergonomics” for consideration when deciding the UK response to the associated Standards Development Organisation. Proposal: ISO/NP 25033-1 – Basic muscular strength measurements for […]

BIEMH which takes place from 3 – 7 June 2024 in Bilbao, Spain, is one of the largest Machine Tool shows in Europe, occupying 6 halls at the Bilbao Exhibition Centre and attracts 40,000 visitors. The event showcases everything around advanced manufacturing: machine tools (metal cutting and metal forming), additive manufacturing, components, cutting tools, automation, […]

The government has warned of a “major incident” impacting declarations submitted on the Customs Declaration Service (CDS) and the Goods Vehicle Movement System (GVMS), leading to disruption for roll-on, roll-off (Ro-Ro) freight entering Britain.  An ongoing software issue on CDS means that some declarations are not being automatically processed by GVMS in the normal way, […]

MTA Cluster members are invited to visit the Hannover Messe exhibition, the world’s leading industrial technology show. This annual event attracts more than 200,000 visitors and showcases the following areas in industrial automation and technology: Automation, Motion & Drives – includes automation, power transmission and control, fluid power. Digital Ecosystems – the platform for all the software […]

Companies can now use an online service from the government to find out what grants might be available to them. It has a search and filter function and explains how to apply for a grant.  At the bottom of the page you can subscribe to get updates when new grants are added: https://www.find-government-grants.service.gov.uk/ We welcome comments […]

Briefing webinar for the industrial energy transformation fund (IETF) competition is being held on Tuesday 6th February.    Manufacturing, recycling and other companies can compete for grant funding towards engineering studies and energy efficiency projects, in a new competition round from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ).  Firms in England Wales and […]

Standards Challenge Fund webinar Join BSI to explore the Standards Challenge Fund, discover benefits for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and learn how to take part. The fund supports innovation in three key areas: digital, net zero, and healthy living and ageing. The Standards Challenge Fund, a collaborative initiative with Innovate UK, invites SMEs to […]

As part of M3 Media Group’s Thought Leadership Programme, they are hosting their Manufacturing Connections discussion event. Manufacturing Connections Groups are intended to provide a valuable channel for manufacturers to connect and engage in a ‘trusted environment.’ They will host many of these events over the course of a year, each attended by approximately 10 […]

The UK government has announced it will introduce new legislation to allow for digital labelling of imports to reduce the regulatory burden on businesses. Digital labelling will allow businesses to put all relevant regulatory or manufacturing information online, rather than having to print it on products, thus saving time and money. The move follows the […]

£185m Industrial Energy Transformation Fund – Webinar 8 February This month sees the launch of the latest round of the government’s flagship fund for energy efficiency – the Industrial Energy Transformation Fund (IETF). The IETF makes £185 million available to help businesses cut their energy bills and carbon emissions through investing in energy efficiency and low […]

Location: VDMA Lyoner Str. 16 60528 Frankfurt am Main Room 10 March 1st,2024 9:30 am – 3:45 pm CET VDMA would like to invite you to the VDMA Plenary Meeting of the OPC UA Companion Specification Working Groups. We are glad to be able to hold the general meeting of the working groups this year […]

Critical Imports & Supply Chain Strategy:  The government in the form of the Department for Business & Trade (DBT) published its strategy on critical imports and supply chains strategy;  this sets out how they will work with business and international partners across 5 priorities: The strategy is the first of its kind and builds on […]

Make UK is pleased to announce the 26th September as National Manufacturing Day in 2024. Encourage your network of manufacturers to sign up and pledge support here – Employer Form | NMD 2024 (nationalmanufacturingday.org). Attached is a template invitation for your use. The Department for Business & Trade have been in touch and are looking […]

The UK government has launched the Critical Imports and Supply Chains Strategy to boost supply chain resilience for critical goods entering the country. The rise in disruptions to the global supply chains following the pandemic, wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, the Red Sea and Panama Canal have also led many shippers to re-route […]

Want to take machinery maintenance to the next level? A new British Standard provides a dynamic approach to your maintenance regime: BS 14200:2023 Maintenance of Machinery – Specification. It looks at additional factors that influence the type and rate of deterioration of equipment. It also institutes processes to identify decay and adjusts the maintenance frequency […]

Innovate UK, part of UK Research and Innovation, is investing up to £25 million in the best game-changing and world-leading ideas, designed for swift, successful commercialisation. The Innovate UK Smart grant has focused scope and eligibility criteria to support SMEs and their partners in developing genuinely new innovations with significant potential for rapid economic return […]

The government has issued a series of reminders about upcoming deadlines traders need to know about, as well as opportunities to share your views on recent trade deals. CDS GVMS update HMRC has recently issued a pair of updates on the ongoing migration to the Customs Declaration Service (CDS). In the first update, HMRC advised […]

I would like to inform you that CECIMO, in collaboration with 22 European business has sent a joint letter to the heads of the European Commission, the European Parliament and the Council of Ministers, calling on the EU and Mercosur leaders to rapidly conclude the trade negotiations on the remaining open points. Having the EU-Mercosur […]

Metalworking fluids: new quiz, webinar and guidance Issued: 11 January 2024 HSE is inspecting manufacturing businesses that use metalworking fluids in their machining processes until March. Their Ebulletin contains facts, resources and guidance to help you make sure you are adequately protecting workers. Quiz – test your knowledge Exposure to metalworking fluids can cause harm […]

MTA Member NCMT are inviting Members to their upcoming Okuma Genos Open Days on the 7th and 8th February. The event will highlight their Okuma Affordable Excellence range available in the UK & Ireland, with the opportunity to speak in greater detail to their Sales Team and view other machines situated at their Technical Centre. […]

16th January 3.30 Underwater acoustics challenges for measurement and calibration https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/underwater-acoustics-challenges-for-measurement-and-calibration-online-tickets-763338304417 This meeting will provide an update on the NPL services and capabilities for underwater acoustic metrology. Underwater acoustics is a key underpinning technology for offshore energy activities, is increasingly used in oceanographic and environmental studies, and also plays a crucial role in maritime defence. […]

Any comments received will be submitted to the national committee AMT/10 “Robotics” for consideration when deciding the UK response to the associated Standards Development Organisation. Proposal: ISO/NP 18646-7 – Robotics — Performance criteria and related test methods for service robots — Part 7: Travelling around humans Please visit: ISO/NP 18646-7 Comment period end date: 10/02/2024 […]

This year is bringing an unprecedented amount of change in the world of employment law, so it’s essential that you know what’s coming (and when!) so you can get everything in place and protect your business. And on top of that, there’s the latest Health and Safety Executive (HSE) focus areas to look out for […]

CECIMO is the European grouping of Associations representing machine tool manufacturers, including the Additive Manufacturing sector.  During their recent Brussels Forum, each Committee detailed their recent activities in a series of short videos. The Technical Committee report, delivered by Mr Favaro, Digital and Technical Policy Officer at CECIMO, covered the following topics: You can see […]

West Midlands manufacturing firms can benefit from a funded skills bootcamp, run by the Manufacturing Technologies Centre (MTC) with money from the West Midlands Combined Authority and Lloyds Bank. MTC says that the bootcamp aims is open to managers, team leaders and supervisors looking to upskill and to optimise their organisation’s processes and output.  At […]

The Future of Manufacturing, Transport and Mobility campaign launched yesterday, with the MTA being included as part of the publication. Hard copies are available within the New Scientist and if you would like a hard copy, please email [email protected]. Contents from the print campaign and more can be found at: https://www.businessandindustry.co.uk/campaign/manufacturing/ If you would like […]

Over two days this week, CECIMO held it Autumn meetings in the form of the Brussels Forum.  It was opened by Markus Schulte, Head of Cabinet to Iliana Ivanova, European Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education & Youth at the European Commission who highlighted the critical role of manufacturing, and the machine tool sector in […]

The Department for Business and Trade UK Export Academy have launched webinars for new exporters and those looking to developing their knowledge, through their export series of Essentials, Masterclasses, Sectors and Markets. Members should join the Academy on https://www.great.gov.uk/export-academy/ to gain access to these sources of information. Topics include:

The Department for Business & Trade (DBT) website offers the opportunity for UK suppliers to promote their product and services to overseas buyers with the endorsement of the UK Government. The website is used by DBT based in the UK and overseas to source UK companies Overseas companies can click onto the following website: https://www.great.gov.uk/international/trade/ […]

MTA members are invited to participate at the upcoming Autosport Engineering show which is part of the Autosport International exhibition at a significantly reduced rate. Autosport International combines both a trade and consumer show that takes place annually at the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham and is attended by 600 exhibitors and 94,000 visitors from 60 […]

The government has, at last, published its long-awaited Advanced Manufacturing Plan, which sets out the actions it is taking for the UK “to be the best place in the world to start and grow a manufacturing business”.The Plan, from the Department for Business and Trade (DBT), made the Sunday newspapers on November 26th, four days […]

We are excited to announce our involvement in a news-style programme Sustainable Solutions Towards Net Zero, produced by ITN Business. The programme delves into the collective commitment of organisations to combat climate change through innovation, collaboration, and a unified vision and highlights how businesses are championing sustainability, propelling transformative change, and spearheading the journey towards […]

Are you set for 2024? We know it can be difficult to stay on top of all the recent changes, trends and legislation updates in the HR and Health & Safety world. But with Christmas coming up, have you made time to review these before the new year? If not, no need to worry! Our […]

The MTA attended the UK Trade & Export Finance Forum in London, hosted by UK Export Finance (UKEF), where attendees learned about the introduction of  more flexible, fast-track funding for small businesses. The maximum support for SME exporters under the scheme was doubling from £5m to £10m, allowing firms easier access to financing, to begin […]

Get ready to unwrap the joy of the season with the Croner Christmas Giveaway Event! As part of The MTA’s ongoing partnership with Croner, we’re thrilled to invite you to participate in this exciting contest exclusively for association members. Here’s how it works: Register for the Croner Christmas Giveaway Event for a chance to win […]

Our colleagues at the Japan Cutting & Wear-resistant Tool Association (JTA) have launched the programme and bookings for the World Cutting Tool Conference which they are hosting from 21st to 24th May in Osaka. The World Cutting Tool Conference is held every three years, although this edition has been delayed due to the impact of […]

The Machinery Regulation (2023/1230/EU) is published but only comes into force in the EU on January 01, 2027.  Until then, the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC continues to apply.   So UK exporters have until the start of 2027 to ensure they meet the new rules. HMG seems reluctant to comment much on EU regulations at the moment […]

Important announcements on manufacturing from government this week, pre-cursors to the promised “Advanced Manufacturing Plan”, expected as part of the autumn statement next week. Key points: £4.5 billion over five years to boost investment in eight sub-sectors “of economic strategic importance”. These are listed as “auto; aero; life sciences; clean energy (carbon capture, utilisation and […]

In response to the increasing demand for skilled workforce in the emerging digital and green era, CECIMO has initiated a survey to produce a comprehensive report that will complement the study on “Transformation of Manufacturing: Embracing Digital and Green Skills. This survey aims to establish an up-to-date skills database as a valuable reference for industrial […]

Extensive ministerial changes announced this week see David Cameron back, with a leading role in the UK’s relations with the EU, and extensive changes at HM Treasury. Cameron’s surprise return from the wilderness as foreign secretary sitting in the House of Lords comes seven years after he resigned in the wake of the advisory referendum […]

The UK Export Academy provides free support to help your business discover your export potential, increase your knowledge and upskill you or your team’s knowledge of overseas sales. Whether you are new to exporting, or whether you are existing exporters looking for growth in specialist markets or sectors, there are masterclasses and events available to support your business. Sign […]

The Made in the UK, Sold to the World Awards are your opportunity to receive recognition for the exceptional growth your business has achieved by trading internationally.   You can apply to any one of the following ten categories:  Visit our website for more information, including eligibility to enter, and to submit your entry. Or […]

The HSE (Health and Safety Executive) is currently running an inspection programme focusing on companies that use metalworking fluids to ensure they are using effective control measures to protect people from the risks associated with exposure to coolants and oils. Findings from previous inspection programmes found that there is still a lack of LEV being […]

The Institute of Export and International Trade has been asked by HMRC to seek the views of trading businesses on how it positions its services around exporting, importing and customs. As the key organisation supporting the entire trade ecosystem, we are keen that our members and the trade community have the opportunity to respond.   The […]

King’s speech highlights The King’s Speech to Parliament has promised new legal frameworks to support the safe commercial development of emerging industries and to encourage innovation in technologies such as machine learning, the most commonly-used form of artificial intelligence.  Details are expected to come from the Department of Science, Innovation and Technology.  Autonomous vehicles are […]

9th November 2023 Manufacturing Technology Centre, Coventry, CV7 9JU Meet, Make, Manufacture is a speed networking event designed for manufacturing industry by manufacturing industry. Powered by MTC Events, our goal is to connect and inspire likeminded individuals to create an environment where ideas can be shared, projects can be discussed and problems solved. The event […]

One of the UK’s most comprehensive providers of workholding, manufacturing ancillary systems and business efficiency services, Leader Chuck International has just released details of its First Tuesday Webinar (FTW). The scheduled monthly webinar is designed to provide answers to the most common workholding questions often asked of the experienced team at Leader. “There is no […]

The UK Trade and Export Finance Forum takes place in London on November 23rd, organised by UK Export Finance.  The annual event, now in its sixth year, covers developments in trade finance with presentations, case studies, workshops and networking.  The keynote speaker will be exports minister Lord Offord. The Forum is organised UK Export Finance […]

The government will next week be hosting a programme of events, webinars and workshops promoting the opportunities that global trade presents to UK businesses. International Trade Week was run for the first time in 2021 and the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) says that the third iteration is “set to be the biggest yet”. […]

As the leaders in outsourced calls, live chat and more, Moneypenny are having lots of conversations with manufacturing and engineering firms who are frustrated about missing calls, and potentially valuable opportunities. Sound familiar? Their flexible and cost-effective Telephone Answering Service is the ideal solution for you. They give you dedicated receptionists to look after calls […]

The ‘Share Your Skills’ campaign is calling on skilled manufacturing workers to share their valuable expertise with the next generation by teaching in further education (FE) part-time. Given our shared ambition to inspire more talent into our industry, we’d love your support in encouraging more manufacturing professionals to consider teaching part-time in further education alongside […]

Skills report from APMG The All-Party Parliamentary Manufacturing Group (APMG) has called on the government to provide greater support for firms in the manufacturing sector “to navigate further education reform and upskill their workforce for a digital future”. Recommendations in its report on upskilling the sector in England include incentives for SMEs to take on […]

The UK Trade and Export Finance Forum takes place in London on November 23rd, organised by UK Export Finance.  The annual event, now in its sixth year, covers developments in trade finance with presentations, case studies, workshops and networking.  The keynote speaker will be exports minister Lord Offord. The Forum is organised UK Export Finance […]

HMRC has announced the extension of wavier document 999L for declarations submitted through the Customs Declaration Service (CDS) for international traders, according to senior industry experts. HMRC has said that code 999L can continue to be used on ex-heading goods, where declarants have confirmed that there are no documentary or licensing requirements on the goods being moved. […]

Abate and Compensate: the pathway to net zero. 14th of November (13:30-17:30 followed by networking until 18:30 pm) Businesses play a key role in achieving our global climate targets. The net zero by 2050 goal is enshrined in UK law and organisations motivated to progress with net zero will unlock major economic and financial opportunities. […]

The Chinese government has said it will require export permits for some graphite products, prompting supply chain concerns. Chinese customs authorities announced the measures on Friday (20 October). “Based on the need to safeguard national security and interests, China has implemented export controls on specific graphite items,” said a spokesman for China’s ministry of commerce […]

The Star Micronics GB Open House takes place from November 7–9, 2023, at the Technology Centre in Derby. If you’re looking to expand your capabilities, improve your efficiency, and maximise your profitability, this is the event for you. A live preview of the SK-51 Type A fixed head lathe, featuring the advanced Fanuc iHMI control […]

MTA members are invited to participate at the upcoming Autosport Engineering show which is part of the Autosport International exhibition at a significantly reduced rate. Autosport International combines both a trade and consumer show that takes place annually at the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham and is attended by 600 exhibitors and 94,000 visitors from 60 […]

CECIMO, the European group for associations representing machine tool manufacturers, has published the latest edition of its Economic Toolbox – this largely covers data for the 2nd quarter of 2023, although some monthly series have later figures. The Toolbox document groups information into 6 categories covering historical data for the sector, demand, investment, the business […]

Labour wants partnership with business Economic growth and partnership with business were core themes of Labour’s annual conference in Liverpool this week, which the party said was its biggest in its history. The state will share the investment risks but must also have a share in the rewards, leader Sir Keir Starmer said. Manufacturing and […]

The MTA are looking to organise a UK Pavilion at the at the next edition of ‘IMTEX FORMING’, the International Metal Forming Technology Exhibition which will be held at the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre (BIEC), Bengaluru from 19-23 January 2024. ‘Tooltech’ ‘Digital Manufacturing’ and ‘Weldexpo’ will be held concurrent to ‘IMTEX FORMING 2024’. The exhibition […]

CCMT 2024 will take place in Shanghai from 8 – 12 April 2024. The trade fair in 2020 and 2022 had to be cancelled due to the pandemic situation. CCMT 2024 will occupy the full trade fair venue in the Shanghai International New Exhibition Centre. The last show attracted 1,233 exhibitors from 23 countries and […]

The Engineering and Machinery Alliance, EAMA has sent a submission to the chancellor of the exchequer ahead of the autumn statement on November 22nd. One ask is for £500 million over eight years for a national, coherent programme to support SMEs adopt best technologies and processes across the manufacturing sector.  The UK has an opportunity […]

It’s cybersecurity awareness month and our cybersecurity partner Mitigo are sharing helpful advice and guidance. This week they are helping practices with a strategy to defend against ransomware attacks. This guide highlights the five layers of defence that you should have lined up against this threat to keep your business secure. Download ransomware guide –

The High Value Manufacturing Catapult is promoting a “Manufacturing Energy Toolkit” A national pilot scheme is being run across their seven centres to help manufacturing SMEs cut their energy usage, cost and emissions. The Manufacturing Energy Toolkit can help you to protect your business from future shocks and price increases. HVMC experts have the experience and industry know-how […]

Some key points and comments on prime minister Rishi Sunak’s speech to the Conservative Party Conference in Manchester, October 4th.  The PM appeared strongly Thatcherite, emphasising service, values, work and family, and promising tax cuts but not immediately.  He sounded like Barack Obama, when he charted his route to becoming the first non-white PM.  And […]

The skills bootcamps site on gov.uk has been updated, with the latest tranche of courses, including those in engineering and in digital skills. Bootcamps are funded courses in England of up to 16 weeks for those looking for a job or for employers wanting to progress existing employees into more senior roles within the business.  […]

The biennial EMO exhibition returned to Hannover last week and amongst all the business discussions and transactions with customers, this is also a meeting place for the global industry to share our views on the state of the manufacturing technology sector. We have the presentations from a couple of meetings available for members to reference: […]

It’s cybersecurity awareness month and our cybersecurity partner Mitigo are sharing helpful advice and guidance. This week they are helping practices with a strategy to defend against ransomware attacks. This guide highlights the five layers of defence that you should have lined up against this threat to keep your business secure. Download ransomware guide

Members need to be aware of new compliance requirements regarding Russian iron and steel processed in third countries.  Separate but broadly similar compliance requirements are being imposed in the UK and EU, although on different times timescales.  Concerns have been raised that there will be varying levels of enforcement across the EU. The Confederation of […]

The MTA and Kids Invent Stuff supported by Imagineering inspiring the nations Primary School Students The MTA and Kids Invent stuff have joined together to inspire the nations primary school students to the exciting world of Engineering. We are looking for MTA members who want to support the programme at their local primary schools and […]

The CBI has asked the MTA for support to gain insights into the apprenticeship levy. If you are an Apprenticeship Levy paying company, could you take some time to answer the following questions. Your feedback will be used by the CBI to produce a report to lobby the government. Please send your responses to Danny […]

Join us on the 4th October at 10 o’clock and find out why you should consider moving carbon up your agenda. When we talk to people about carbon, we quite often get this feedback, ‘We want to do the right thing, but times are tough and getting my business through the current economic challenges is […]

The Global Machine Tools Sector: State of Play and Tackling New Challenges Hannover, 18 September 2023 – Representatives from machine tool associations – whose manufacturers account for more than 80% of the global machine tool production, gathered at the world’s leading trade fair for production technology to demonstrate their resilience and strength in the face […]

UKIMS comes into view The UK Internal Market Scheme (UKIMS) will replace the existing UK Trader Scheme (UKTS) in under two weeks, from 30 September. Under the scheme, businesses will be able to declare that goods entering Northern Ireland from Great Britain are ‘not at risk’ of moving to the EU, ensuring EU duty is not payable […]

Onwards and upwards! New Area Sales Engineer appointment in the Midlands increases The Vigilance Group’s presence and profile in the region, helping it to meet the growing demand from customers for its products and services. The Vigilance Group, comprising MACH Machine Tools and Machine Tool Sales Online (MTSO), has strengthened its sales operations in the […]

This new order makes it mandatory for all manufacturers who intend to export to India any steel and steel products, to obtain a valid license from the Bureau of Indian Standards, for use of a Standard Mark, before commencement of regular production of such items.      Sujith Thomas – India Head – Engineering & Manufacturing, Department […]

Reliance Precision Limited (‘Reliance’) is pleased to announce it has been granted the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Silver Award. The Ministry of Defence (MOD) scheme is designed to recognise employers who support the armed forces community and the wider defence industry. Those who receive the award must have signed the Armed Forces Covenant – a pledge […]

We are delighted that we will be joined on our Understanding Your Net Zero Journey webinar by our Technology Partner IES. IES are a leader in digital performance modelling for the built environment. Their digital twin technology provides a detailed understanding of manufacturing facility’s complex energy needs. This enables different scenarios to be assessed, allowing […]

Predator Software expands its support for CNC controllers by announcing compatibility with the latest offering from Okuma, the OSP-500 being debuted at EMO Hannover next week. Peterborough, UK and Portland, OR, USA— September 15th 2023 — Predator Software has announced support for Okuma’s next generation OSP-500 control within their data collection and OEE measurement software […]

Invite companies in your network to meet the Made Smarter team. Meet other SMEs who have benefitted from digital transformation at our event hosted in the Siemens smart factory Congleton on 20th September. Book Now – Limited Spaces

The Government announced this week that the UK has now associated with the EU Horizon Europe programme (but not Euratom).  This follows the intensified negotiations that have taken place following the acceptance of the Windsor Agreement. You should note that the negotiated terms also include an automatic “clawback” which allows the UK to be compensated […]

The MTA will be exhibiting in Hall 8 stand no 51 at EMO, the world’s leading fair for production technology, which will take place from 18 – 23 September 2023 in Hannover, representing MTA Cluster members (MTA,EIA and AMUK) and the UK contingent at the show. The full exhibitor lists can be found on: https://visitors.emo-hannover.de/en/search/?category=ep […]

Manufacturing Indonesia 2023 is the 32nd International Manufacturing Machinery, Equipment, Materials and Services Exhibition – it will be held on 6-9th December at Jakarta International Expo. Manufacturing Indonesia is not just another trade exhibition; it is the country’s premier platform for the Manufacturing industry. With nearly a thousand expected exhibiting companies from 33+ countries and […]

Join us to find out the information YOU need to make an informed decision about YOUR Net Zero Journey. Taking place on Teams on Wednesday 20th September at 10am. We’ll be covering the key areas: About Auditel: Auditel are a leading carbon consultancy, providing carbon audit, accounting and reduction planning to a wide range of […]

The government has this week announced a new timeline for when businesses need to be completing export declarations using the Customs Declaration Service (CDS). CDS is replacing the Customs Handling of Import and Export Freight (CHIEF) system and exporters had been due to have moved over to using it by 31 October 2023. However, HMRC […]

The Government has launched The UK Business Climate Hub a new website for businesses looking for support on how to reduce carbon emissions. This collaboration between government, businesses and industry groups will enable SMEs to take action. Research published revealed that SMEs generate 44% of the UK’s non-household greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions but 90% felt restrained […]

The Powering Up Britain publications announced that Government will develop a dedicated energy advice service for SMEs. The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero are now working with the design research team at Softwire to understand what small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) think about their energy use (e.g. electricity, gas or other fuels). To […]

The government has launched a three-month consultation to ensure that regulation on product safety is “fit for the future”.  It aims to: It is a lengthy consultation with 23 questions – here is a flavour of them: The consultation has been much delayed, due in part to frequent changes in responsible ministers but its publication […]

Please be advised that a New Work Item Proposal has been loaded to the BSI Standards Development Portal for comment. Any comments received will be submitted to the national committee AMT/8 – “Additive manufacturing” for consideration when deciding the UK response to the associated Standards Development Organisation. Proposal: ISO/ASTM PWI 52922, Additive manufacturing — Design […]

Paragon’s Manufacturing Finance and Invoice Finance teams have provided Kent-based automotive parts supplier and refurbisher Brands Hatch Performance (BHP) with the support necessary to expand its operations and introduce credit line facilities to enhance services offered to its customers. Brand Hatch Performance, based near the world-famous racing circuit, is a family-run business that provides customers […]

In this 8-minute Q&A, Mitigo’s Lindsay Hill and Kerrie Machin discuss why you must get independent assurance to tackle your cyber risk and enable you to sleep at night. Listen nowhttps://on.soundcloud.com/1mrC6

This week, the Department for Business & Trade (DBT) announced that it will bring forward legislation to extend indefinitely the recognition of the CE mark on the market in Great Britain on a wide range of goods which are the responsibility of DBT.  Note that Northern Ireland retains the use of the CE mark under […]

The House of Commons Treasury Select Committee is looking into SME finance for what could be an important, influential report. The inquiry comes at a time of general tightening of credit.  Companies in the engineering sector are keeping a keen eye on customers’ ability and willingness to pay.  Sharp increases in interest rates have affected […]

A safety and product recall note has been issued for a lengthy list of Vevor-branded products, including air compressors, coating machines and welding machines.    The notice, from the Office of Product Safety and Standards, relates to both business and domestic tools and cites risks as “electric shock, fire, burns and injuries”.   The note can […]

Attached below for downloading is a policy paper from Jack Semple at EAMA on the topic of the current debate about net zero and decarbonisation more widely in the UK.  There are a number of risks and dilemmas in the whole strategy for dealing with climate change and the debate has been stimulated again by […]

Royal Assent has been given to the Employment Relations (Flexible Working) Bill, clearing the way for employees across the UK to be given new rights regarding flexible working. The rights will come into force in about a year’s time and will be good for both firms and their employees, the government says.  There will be […]

The Prime Minister has formed a new business council, comprising leaders of very large companies.  Half the members are men, half women. The council will discuss ways to boost investment, innovation and access to skills and talent.  It will “support the delivery of the PM’s priority to grow the economy and make the UK the […]

The UK has passed two landmarks in trade over the past week.  The UK signed a treaty confirming accession to the CPTPP (Comprehensive and Progressive Trans-Pacific Partnership) trade bloc and the Electronics Trade Documents Bill gained Royal Assent.  Business and trade secretary Kemi Badenoch signed the CPTPP treaty at a meeting of the bloc in […]

The UK Department of Business and Trade (DBT) has announced a second series of UKCA roundtables, and has launched of a survey on conformity assessment costs. As we’ve discussed in previous EMIF meetings, a series of roundtable events already took place during April and May. The intention of those sessions, during which DBT had asked […]

Jack Semple, Secretary of EAMA reports that industry minister Nus Ghani said this week that manufacturing is “absolutely critical” to the UK economy but “it doesn’t have sexy cachet”.  Speaking at an event in Westminster organised by Onward, a leading centre-right think tank, she emphasised the importance of the manufacturing sector, which she said was […]

The Home Office invited participate in a survey for Responsible Persons (RPs) under the Fire Safety Order (FSO) 2005.  The survey, which is anonymous, will ask questions about you, the buildings you are responsible for, and about your experiences of current and awareness of future fire safety legislation changes.  All findings from the survey will […]

Jack Semple at EAMA reports that the Cabinet Office is promoting a new UK-wide online portal for accessing central government support, which it says will made it easier for firms to find and obtain grant support.  The portal “could save [the taxpayer] up to £270 million through increased efficiency and preventing fraud”, it says. Firms […]

Employers can find managing pregnant employees challenging – how does maternity leave work? How much maternity pay are they entitled to? What are the Health & Safety implications? Whether you’ve been running a business for years or you’re new to management, our Associate Member, Citation have got you covered with their FREE pregnancy guide to […]

The Friday Brief has been shortlisted as a finalist in the Association Excellence Awards Best Association Newsletter category. We have worked out that the FB has been going for around 15 years now and sending out roughly 50 editions every year that is around 750 editions that have been sent out over the years! The […]

The 13th International Conference on Compressors and their Systems will be held this September in London. Early bird registration is open until the 6th of August. This conference provides a forum where developments in air, gas and refrigeration compressors, vacuum pumps, expanders, related systems and components will be discussed. The program will contain keynote addresses, […]

The MTA will be exhibiting at EMO in Hall 8 stand number B51 with the International Pavilions. Please will you advise whether your company is exhibiting at the show either indepentley or with/as distributors or agents so that we can include you in our promotion at the show. As the MTA are exhibitors, we are […]

UKCA – industry roundtables  The Department for Business and Trade is holding a second round would of industry roundtables on the UKCA regime. They will be held from August 2nd to 17th in London, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Southampton, Darlington, Manchester, and Birmingham.  You can sign up to attend, here.  “We are keen to gain further input […]

CECIMO are pleased to invite you to the International Conference on Additive Manufacturing (ICAM), organised by CECIMO – European Association of Manufacturing Technologies. The conference will take place during EMO Hannover 2023, one of the most important events in the manufacturing industry. ICAM is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, 20th September, from 11:00 to […]

A great achievement by The University of Sheffield Project Sunfire Team who designed the most powerful student-built engine of its type – an engine that uses both fuel and an oxidiser rather than breathing in oxygen like a jet engine. It’s also the first that is regen-cooled – an engine that uses fuel to cool […]

HVMC and Digital Catapult were awarded a grant to run a Made Smarter Sustainability Accelerator programme through which we will help industrial partners fast forward the adoption of digital solutions that deliver Resource Efficiency and Energy Efficiency (REEE).  This brings the opportunity to industrial partners investing in the programme to frame their REEE challenge together […]

We are thrilled to extend a special invitation to you and your esteemed colleagues for an exciting Additive Manufacturing Roadshow organized by HP. This roadshow will bring together our beloved partners and customers to explore the latest advancements in additive manufacturing and how you can leverage from this technology. During this event, you will have […]

Wernick’s ambition is to be market leader in sustainable manufacturing and have adopted an energy reduction hierarchy across their estate and operations. They see Voltage Optimisation (VO) as one of the first things that should be considered to eliminate any wasted energy. “Like other manufacturers, we have faced increasing price pressures from themarket, so we […]

The European Commission has bowed to pressure from industry and is set to abandon plans to ban PFAS and other chemicals it deems to be dangerous, according to The Guardian.  PFAS (polyfluoroalkyl substances) is a “forever chemical” that accumulates in the body and damages health, campaigners argue.  It is widely used in industry, which says […]

As you may already be aware, one of the services that we offer “Full” Members is free access to BSI standards through the British Standards Online (BSOL) system. We are working with BSI to provide some complimentary training on the 2nd of August 2023 from 11:30 to 12 pm to ensure that you are able […]

Citation ISO Certification help businesses of all sizes and sectors achieve internationally recognised Standards that help them stand out from the crowd. Whether your members want to improve their efficiency and effectiveness, manage their environmental impact, enhance Health Safety, or protect their information security, Citation ISO Certification will help them achieve a globally recognised seal […]

DfE misses T Level deadline The Department for Education has missed its deadline for responding to a Commons education committee report, an important aspect of which was criticism of T Level policy.  The DfE’s reply was due by the end of last week. In its report on post-16 qualifications, the committee said that while T […]

Terms of the Windsor Framework allow traders to reclaim EU duty paid on goods that can be shown not to have entered the EU. This Duty Re-Imbursement Scheme went live at the end of last week and can be applied to goods moved since 2021.  Link:  Northern Ireland duty reimbursement scheme launches – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) […]

CCMT – China CNC Machine Tool Fair 2024 8 – 12 April 2024 CCMT will take place from the 8 – 12 April 2024 at the Shanghai New International Exhibition Centre (Pudong, Shanghai). CCMT is the sister show of CIMT which has a strong influence in the machine tool industry, especially in East China where […]

The EU’s new Machinery Regulation is expected to be published in the Official Journal early in July and applied 42 months later, from January 2027.  The UK will have to decide how to respond to the Regulation, which will supercede the 2006 Machinery Directive from which current UK rules are derived. One aim of the […]

We want to share some exciting news; Bonham & Brook has been working on a new energy price relief scheme that came into effect April 2023 and runs until March 2024. It’s available to most manufacturing companies and is a 5p saving on their electric unit rate and 3p on gas. This is not an […]

Digital transformation has a huge impact on competitiveness and efficiency, however many manufacturers have questions about the complexity, cost and relevance – especially smaller businesses. Join our partners Make UK at a digital manufacturing sites to discuss how to execute digitalisation, maximise its capabilities, and seek financial support. 12th July at Apollo Tyres in London, […]

The Global Supply Chains and Economic Security Directorate in the Department for Business & Trade (DBT) is looking for feedback on businesses experiences of managing critical supply chains and disruption. Minimising supply chain disruption continues to be a Ministerial priority.  This survey will help the Department build a picture of:  Through this survey they are […]

Jack Semple, Secretary of EAMA reports that the Shadow Foreign Secretary David Lammy has promised that the UK would have a closer relationship with the European Union than it has now, under a Labour government. “Our most important economic relationship is with Europe,” he said, but he added that Labour welcomed the prospect of accession […]

Industrial Plant & Equipment is proud to announce the launch of the new Industrial Plant & Equipment Awards (IP&E Awards). The IP&E Awards are free-to-enter and showcase a variety of visions of industrial excellence, reflecting the diversity and best-in-class quality which are synonymous with UK industry. “Following our 30th anniversary last year, the launch of […]

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has published its REACH Regulatory Management Options Analysis (RMOA) report for poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The RMOA has adopted a narrower working definition of PFAS, removing the criterion that a single isolated methylene group (-CF2-) is sufficient for classification as a PFAS. The definition is stated as: “…one […]

The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales is running a webinar called “Tax reliefs for growing in manufacturing” on July 4th, between 1 and 2.  The webinar will cover The webinar has been organised by the ICAEW’s manufacturing and small and micro business communities.  There is a small charge, £15, for non-members. Details […]

Please be advised that a New Work Item Proposal has been loaded to the BSI Standards Development Portal for comment. Any comments received will be submitted to the national committee PH/9  “Applied Ergonomics” for consideration when deciding the UK response to the associated Standards Development Organisation. Scope This part of ISO 9241 provides requirements and […]

Are you an innovator in the machine tools sector? Do you want to showcase your exceptional contributions and inspire others? We are calling on all players in the machine tool industry to enter the Machine Tools Innovation Awards (MTI Awards)! The MTI Awards aim to celebrate the best innovations that push the boundaries of what […]