Scotland Launches Digital Process Manufacturing Centre to Drive Innovation and Economic Growth
Scotland has just unveiled a cutting-edge Digital Process Manufacturing Centre (DPMC) in North Ayrshire, officially opening its doors today, February 27, 2025. This innovative hub is all about pushing the boundaries of process manufacturing through digital advancements, with the goal of spurring economic growth and positioning the region as a frontrunner in smart manufacturing and digital expertise.
As part of the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS), the DPMC is designed to give process manufacturing companies access to the latest digital and data-driven technologies in a safe, collaborative setting. Here, manufacturers can experiment with and implement groundbreaking solutions like artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, digital data management, and virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR).
This DPMC serves as a pilot project for a future permanent facility and is nestled within the Booth Welsh manufacturing space at i3 in Irvine. It’s made possible through the £251 million Ayrshire Growth Deal, with contributions from the UK Government (£103m), the Scottish Government (£103m), local councils (£45.5m), along with support from Scottish Enterprise, the University of Strathclyde (acting as the NMIS operator), and CPI. Ongoing backing will also come from membership fees.
The centre is on a mission to speed up the integration of digital technology in key process manufacturing sectors, helping businesses cut energy costs, boost productivity, and strive towards net-zero goals. It will provide access to testing facilities, collaborative workspaces, and adaptable manufacturing areas for prototyping new techniques.
As part of the Ayrshire 5G Innovation Region program, the DPMC is set to enhance 5G connectivity. Vodafone has been chosen as the 5G provider for the site and will create a Mobile Private Network to ensure secure, high-speed wireless coverage. This initiative is backed by funding from the UK Government’s Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), which has recognized Ayrshire as one of ten innovation regions for cutting-edge wireless technologies in the UK.
Through the NMIS Manufacturing Skills Academy, the DPMC will provide upskilling opportunities for the current workforce while also nurturing the next generation of talent. Businesses will gain from live digital demonstrations that highlight how various digital tools can be utilized in specific manufacturing processes. Equipment for these demonstrations is being supplied by companies like Ailsa Reliability Solutions and Booth Welsh, with support from the Ayrshire Growth Deal.
The center aims to connect with a diverse range of sectors, including pharmaceutical manufacturing, oil and gas, chemicals, food and drink, water treatment, and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG).
According to the UK Government’s Made Smarter Review, integrating industrial digital technologies could potentially increase productivity by as much as 30% in both new and existing production facilities.
Chris Courtney, CEO of NMIS, shared his thoughts:
“The DPMC will act as a vital hub where process manufacturers can delve into digital technologies and tap into the wider NMIS ecosystem. The development and use of digital tools not only enhance productivity and reduce energy consumption but also promote sustainability and competitiveness. Our goal is to make advanced manufacturing technologies accessible to everyone, and this new facility will play a key role in driving digital transformation throughout the sector.”
Kirsty McNeill, the Scotland Office Minister, shared her thoughts on the recent opening of the DPMC, saying:
“The launch of the DPMC is a thrilling milestone in the Ayrshire Growth Deal. With £5 million backing from the UK Government, we’re gearing up for the next phase, which will see the establishment of a permanent center. This is a crucial part of our Plan for Change, aimed at sparking national renewal and fostering sustainable economic growth. I urge business leaders, educators, and stakeholders to dive into the opportunities that the DPMC presents.”
The DPMC is a collaborative project involving the University of Strathclyde, North Ayrshire Council, and CPI, and it aligns with the UK’s High Value Manufacturing (HVM) Catapult programme. CPI, as a strategic partner, will lend its expertise in digital processing technologies and provide essential market insights.
Frank Millar, the CEO of CPI, remarked:
“The introduction of the DPMC highlights Scotland’s rising prominence in commercializing digital technologies for sustainable and resource-efficient manufacturing. Alongside our Medicines Manufacturing Innovation Centre, we’re in a strong position to drive industry transformation and create significant economic impact.”
Councillor Tony Gurney, who serves as the Cabinet Member for Green Environment and Economy, added:
“The DPMC is a game-changer for North Ayrshire. With a manufacturing workforce that exceeds the national average, it’s crucial that we invest in digital transformation to secure jobs for the future and enhance regional competitiveness. This facility places Ayrshire at the cutting edge of smart, wireless-enabled manufacturing and strengthens our goal of becoming the UK’s leading 5G innovation region.”
North Ayrshire is home to industry giants like Booth Welsh, GSK, DSM, and Merck Group, and is rapidly evolving with the development of the i3 Digital Innovation Campus and the Low Carbon Business Park in Irvine.
To find out more about the Digital Process Manufacturing Centre, check out:
👉 www.nmis.scot/what-we-do/digital-process-manufacturing-centre
