Lancashire-based Spiroflow UK, a manufacturer of conveying and weighing systems, has secured funding through the Made Smarter programme to adopt industrial digital technologies designed to boost its growth and productivity.

The company, which makes systems for use in the food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, chemicals, minerals and plastics sectors, has now joined the ranks vof over 60 businesses in the region investing in a range of digital technologies — including data analytics, artificial intelligence, augmented reality, 3-D printing and robotics — to solve business challenges.

In the first year of the Made Smarter programme, 300 SMEs in the North West have secured support, including specialised advice and £1.6 million of funding.

The help on offer includes expert advice and one-to-one support, digital road-mapping workshops to help manufacturers take the first steps to transform their business, and eight-month leadership and management training programmes (offered in partnership with Lancaster University), as well as funded three-month student placements.

By adopting these cutting-edge technologies, businesses can benefit from improved productivity and revenue, increased exports and job creation, plus a more-skilled workforce, enhanced integration with supply chains and reduced environmental impact.

Donna Edwards, programme director for the Made Smarter North West pilot programme (www.madesmarter.uk), said: “Over the last year, the Made Smarter team has engaged with hundreds of manufacturers, from every corner of the region.

"We have found a great enthusiasm about the benefits of adopting new digital technology, tempered by uncertainty of how to go about it.

"It is clear that the SMEs need specialist advice to help them select the right approach for their business, how much to invest and which technologies will bring the greatest benefits.

"Made Smarter is relevant for any North West SME employing less than 250 staff who make, create, manufacture or engineer.”