The Manufacturing Technologies Association’s (MTA) Annual Dinner took place at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London on 6 February to discuss the future and celebrate industry success.

Marcus Burton, MTA president and director of Yamazaki Mazak, used his keynote speech to address some of the topics affecting the UK manufacturing sector including Brexit and future trade, climate change, how MTA members are ‘champions of productivity’, as well as MACH 2020 (www.machexhibition.com) which is fast approaching (20-24 April).


He said: “MTA members have the equipment, ideas and expertise for our manufacturers to transform their productivity. In fact, our MTA members are the ‘champions of productivity’.

As such we have a huge opportunity, and responsibility, to improve the economic well-being of the whole country.”

“MACH is the only place in the UK to see such technology on display and under power — but it is more than that — it is the spotlight for our creativity.

It’s just ten weeks away now, and I, for one, can’t wait to see what the ‘champions of productivity’ have to offer the 25,000-plus visitors we expect to come from far and wide.”


The MTA president also addressed concerns on climate change and Brexit.

Mr Burton said: “The UK Government is committed to achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

“These changes will cause disruption but undoubtedly will bring huge opportunities for innovative manufacturers.

“We must be at the centre of this transformation and develop new innovative products and services using the latest digital technologies.”

On Brexit he reiterated the MTA’s commitment to engage with Government to ensure “sensible cooperation on regulations, developed by listening to our industry, will ensure our sector can continue to be competitive in our biggest market.

“We need a customs regime that is light touch, and the ability to send people all over the continent at short notice — we need this flexibility to support our customers.”