East Yorkshire manufacturers are among 19 Yorkshire businesses investing almost £900,000 in digital technologies to improve efficiency, create jobs and support future growth, with support from Made Smarter Yorkshire.
The manufacturers have secured grant funding through the Government-backed programme, which helps small and medium-sized businesses adopt digital tools and technologies to improve productivity, strengthen competitiveness and unlock growth opportunities.
The latest projects build on Made Smarter Yorkshire’s wider impact since launching in 2021. During that time, the programme has supported more than 1,250 manufacturers, awarded 112 technology grants worth £1.6 million and helped generate almost £5 million of investment across the region.
East Yorkshire businesses supported through the latest round of funding are investing in digital design tools, production software and integrated business systems to modernise operations, improve visibility and create a platform for future growth.
Hull-based Helix Precision Machining has secured funding to invest in CAD/CAM software and IT hardware, strengthening its digital design and machining processes. The technology will improve manufacturing efficiency, increase productivity, enhance traceability and help the business make better use of machine capacity.
Meanwhile, Everquip Garage Equipment, based in Goole, has implemented a bespoke ERP system integrating stock management, sales and planning functions to improve visibility, coordination and operational efficiency across the business.
The investments demonstrate confidence at a time when manufacturers continue to face economic uncertainty, rising operating costs and pressure to improve efficiency. Rather than standing still, these businesses are embracing digital technology to increase productivity, strengthen customer service and improve operational performance.
Richard Evans, Commercial Manager at Everquip Garage Equipment, said: “Like many growing manufacturers, we were managing multiple systems and touchpoints across the business, which created inefficiencies and limited visibility.
“We wanted a solution that would bring everything together, improve communication with customers, help us coordinate resources more effectively and give us a clearer understanding of the true cost of delivering our services.
“With support from Made Smarter we were able to move forward with a significant investment which has delivered exactly what we hoped for. It has transformed the way we manage information, strengthened customer service and helped us deliver what we believe is a best-in-class experience within our industry.
“We’ve also expanded the team and expect to see further improvements in efficiency and growth as the system continues to develop.”
Lee Sansam, Director of Helix Precision Machining, said: “The investment will significantly improve our manufacturing efficiency by improving process consistency and increasing overall productivity. The technology will also help us make better use of machine capacity, improve traceability and support future business growth.
“Our experience with Made Smarter has been very positive. The support and funding have enabled us to invest in technology that may otherwise have been difficult to justify in the short term. This investment will help us remain competitive, improve operational performance and support continued growth within the business.”
Jessica Armitage, Programme Manager for Made Smarter Yorkshire, said: “It’s fantastic to see manufacturers across East Yorkshire continuing to invest and grow despite the challenges facing the sector.
“These latest projects demonstrate the importance of adopting digital technologies to improve productivity, increase capacity, strengthen competitiveness and future-proof manufacturing operations.
“Many manufacturers begin their journey by exploring how technology can help them work more efficiently, make better use of data and create a stronger platform for future growth.
“Whether it’s advanced manufacturing software, integrated business systems or better use of digital tools, these projects are helping manufacturers work smarter and build stronger, more resilient businesses.
“Grant funding is still available and I would encourage more manufacturers to register with Made Smarter and discover how digital technologies could deliver meaningful improvements to their business.”
To access Made Smarter support, manufacturers begin by speaking with a specialist adviser about their business and growth ambitions. A digital expert then works with the company to develop a tailored roadmap, identifying where technology and skills can deliver the greatest impact. Businesses can then access a range of support, including specialist advice, leadership and skills programmes, digital internships, and matched funding of up to £20,000 through a digital technology grant.
To learn more about how Made Smarter can help your business innovate and grow, visit www.madesmarter.uk/yorkshire