Made Smarter, the government-backed programme supporting manufacturers with technology and skills, is urging manufacturers to welcome schools, colleges, and local communities into their factories for National Manufacturing Day on 26 September. The initiative seeks to boost awareness of the sector and inspire future talent.
Playdale, a Cumbria-based playground equipment manufacturer, is among the many companies set to open its doors for the event. National Manufacturing Day (NMD24), now in its third year, is organized by the trade body Make UK and has become a nationwide celebration of the UK’s manufacturing sector. It offers a unique opportunity for the public to see behind the scenes of production processes, learn about the innovative technology involved, and explore career opportunities in the industry.
As part of a UK-wide open house, manufacturers are encouraged to showcase how they produce popular consumer goods, leveraging cutting-edge technology. With high vacancy rates and a shrinking labor pool, NMD24 aims to highlight various career paths, from engineering and robotics to data analysis and technological innovation.
Playdale is one of many companies involved in the North West, alongside Duo UK, a packaging products manufacturer from Greater Manchester. Both companies, supported by Made Smarter’s Adoption programme, will open their factories for tours, allowing visitors to see firsthand what goes into producing their products.
Paul Mallinson, Technical and Operations Director at Playdale, emphasized the importance of the event: “We’re thrilled to take part in National Manufacturing Day. This is a fantastic chance to open our factory to the community, demonstrating how we create fun and innovative playground equipment and what a career in manufacturing can offer.”
Zoe Brimelow, Brand Director at Duo UK, echoed this sentiment: “We’re excited to invite the local community to tour our facility and see how we produce high-quality, sustainable packaging products. We’ll also run a workshop for students on the ‘value of packaging,’ teaching them about sustainability and the circular economy.”
Hartlepool’s Expanded Metal Company, a specialist in metal mesh solutions, is also participating by offering factory tours. The company recently integrated a cobot welder, supported by Made Smarter North East, to streamline its production processes.
Donna Edwards, Director for Made Smarter North West, expressed her enthusiasm for the initiative: “I’m delighted that manufacturers in our programme are supporting Make UK’s campaign. National Manufacturing Day perfectly aligns with our mission to help SME manufacturers through digital transformation while emphasizing a people-centered approach.”
She added, “It’s a chance to break the outdated image of manufacturing and show how far the industry has progressed, moving towards smart, modern factories. We hope more manufacturers will join in to showcase the sector’s achievements and encourage the next generation of talent.”
Across other regions, Made Smarter Yorkshire and Humber will host workshops to demonstrate how manufacturers can enhance data management and drive innovation through technology. Additionally, Made Smarter will stream a special LinkedIn Live event on 26 September at 12pm, highlighting the programme’s nationwide impact.
From a broader perspective, Brian Holliday, Co-Chair of the Made Smarter Commission, will provide insights in a special ITN broadcast titled “Manufacturing: Industry, Innovation and Impact.” This programme will air on National Manufacturing Day and will feature contributions from organizations such as Made in Britain and The Manufacturing Technologies Association.
Stephen Phipson, CEO of Make UK, praised the event: “National Manufacturing Day is a brilliant opportunity for the entire sector to unite and celebrate the incredible products and technologies designed and made in Britain. Our manufacturing industry is at the forefront of global innovation, particularly in renewable technologies and engineering. This day will allow the public to see the exciting opportunities available in the sector.”
As the sector faces growing demand for skilled workers, National Manufacturing Day offers a crucial platform for manufacturers to connect with potential future talent and showcase the dynamic and evolving world of UK manufacturing.