The In-Comm Training & Manufacturing Group (ITMG), a consortium of like-minded companies, has been launched to boost UK manufacturing’s productivity and competitive advantage.

This initiative gives SME manufacturers access to world-class technology plus business and learning support that can bridge the skills gap, increase R&D, and drive continuous improvement.

Over 140 companies have already signed up to receive discounted access to 100 up-skilling training courses and networking events, plus access to grant and funding opportunities.

Professional partners have also been appointed to help firms overcome barriers to growth and sustainability through legal/HR support, finance advice and managing expansion.

Chris Sadler, general manager of Castalloy Europe Ltd and executive board member of ITMG, said: “Industry is
extremely competitive at the moment, and it could get harder, with complications from tariffs and unknown effects from the Brexit negotiations.

“The whole reason we started ITMG is to bring together companies that can share best practice and give them specialist expertise, the latest information and access to technical academies and technology that improves their manufacturing performance and supports the development of new products.

“Where we offer something different to other organisations is that we can call upon 10 technical partners in Blum-Novotest, Ceratizit WNT, Engineering Technology Group, FBC Manby Bowdler, Guhring, Hexagon, HK3D, Hyfore Workholding,
In-Comm Training and Moore Stephens.

“These are some of the leading players in areas that include metrology, wire EDM, CNC machinery and cutting tools, and they are opening up all of their expertise and knowledge to our member companies.”

ITMG, which is a ‘not for profit’ organisation, has varying levels of membership to ensure that the group is open to all, from small businesses just starting out through to multi-national companies with facilities around the world.

To find out more, visit the Web site (www.in-comm-tmg.co.uk).