The Manufacturing Technologies Association’s (MTA) Annual Dinner took place at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London on 6 February.

Marcus Burton, MTA president and non-executive director for Yamazaki Mazak, used his keynote speech to address some of the topics affecting the UK manufacturing sector, including Brexit and future trade, how MTA members are ‘champions of productivity’, and MACH 2020, 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 spotlight for our creativity. It’s just a few weeks away now, and I 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 (www.mta.org.uk) also addressed concerns on climate change. He 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 engaging with Government: “Sensible co-operation on regulations, developed by listening to our industry, will ensure that our sector can continue to be competitive in our biggest market.

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