GM LEP seeks views on Greater Manchester Manufacturing Strategy

Phil Black - PII Editor 25/09/2014

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With a manufacturing industry set to grow in value from £6.7bn (GVA measured in 2012) to £10bn by 2027, businesses in Greater Manchester are being asked for their views on a proposed development strategy for the sector.

The strategy document has been drafted by New Economy – Greater Manchester’s economic think-tank and advisor on best policy practice – on behalf of the Greater Manchester Local Enterprise Partnership (GM LEP). It sets out several recommendations which are to:

Establish a private-sector led Manufacturing Leadership Network – to serve as the voice of the sector, identify and address the challenges Greater Manchester’s manufacturers will face and raise the profile of the sector.
Establish a network of Greater Manchester skills training facilities – which incorporate key private-sector participants and give skills providers access to the latest manufacturing technologies.
Develop an industry-backed pilot programme for manufacturing engagement in schools – to drive up the numbers of young people choosing manufacturing as a career.
Improve the supply chain and intelligence base.
Develop a tailored Greater Manchester business support package for manufacturing sub sectors and key supply chains – to enhance the current national offer.
Accelerate capital investment by addressing information failure about alternative investment funding options that are available to businesses.

Mike Blackburn, chair of GM LEP, said: “Manufacturing is one of the most productive sectors in Greater Manchester’s economy but it faces many challenges, not least that expenditure in its research and development is much lower when compared with our international competitors.

“Other strategic issues to be addressed include developing skills and improving performance in areas such as exporting products. The industry is going through unprecedented change – with new technologies such as nanotech, composites and 3D printing leading the way – and we need to ensure it has the optimum conditions to thrive.

“We’re keen to consult not only with businesses that represent our manufacturing sector but also those who have a direct interest – representatives from the ICT, financial services or life sciences sectors for example. By gaining valuable business and commercial insight, we can hopefully begin to build upon these strategic recommendations and ensure Greater Manchester’s manufacturing sector is adequately equipped to reach its full potential.”

The draft Greater Manchester Manufacturing Strategy can be viewed on New Economy’s website: www.neweconomymanchester.com

The consultation period for the strategy will close Friday, 24 October 2014. Business representatives are encouraged to share their views by visiting www.surveymonkey.com/s/RSP2FTN where they will be asked three questions about the strategy and its recommendations.