Yorkshire and Humber's support offer for manufacturers is boosted

28/07/2009

Yorkshire Forward has welcomed the government’s Advanced Manufacturing Package, announced today by Lord Mandelson.

The support package will see over £150 million being made available to help ensure that these businesses survive, thrive and expand - creating jobs and wealth, meeting societal needs, such as health, and addressing challenges, such as the need for environmental protection.

With a long history in manufacturing and as a forerunner in new high value added manufacturing activity, Yorkshire and Humber can already boast a world-class manufacturing technology park focussed on supporting businesses to make complex and high specification products; use sophisticated processes; and offer associated services.

The creation of the Region’s Manufacturing Taskforce earlier this year brought together industry business representatives and key representatives from the regional industry, including the Engineering Employers Federation (EFF) and Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS), to identify key measures in support of the Region’s manufacturers, such as innovation and training, whilst also addressing its future opportunities for growth.

As part of the new funding package, a further £4m expansion of MAS will enable MAS Yorkshire & Humber to expand its services to more businesses; offering advice on improving efficiency, raising productivity, developing new ideas and tackling challenges brought on by the current economic climate.

Simon Hill, Executive Director of Business for Yorkshire Forward comments: “We know that a strong manufacturing sector is the foundation of a sound economy and as such it is vital that we support the Manufacturing industry – particularly in the current climate.

The success of manufacturing companies in Yorkshire and Humber depends on a high level of design and scientific skills, in developing new designs and new processes, to stay ahead of their competition in what is an increasingly global marketplace. Today’s funding announcement will help to ensure we have the support available for businesses on the ground, making a real difference to their bottom line.”
 

ENDS
For further information or to arrange an interview, please contact Leona Thompson, Press Manager on 0113 3949589 or email Leona.thompson@yorkshire-forward.com

Yorkshire Forward
• Yorkshire Forward is the Regional Development Agency behind the economic regeneration of Yorkshire and Humber. It aims to make a positive difference by investing in jobs, improving towns and cities, and in supporting businesses throughout the region.
• Yorkshire Forward’s investment across the region is maximised by attracting European Regional Development Funding from the Objectives One and Two programmes and the 2007-2013 Regional Competitiveness and Employment Programmes.