Two Salford manufacturers have received nearly £50,000 in government-backed grant funding to invest in new technology they say will help them work more efficiently and create jobs.
PP Graphics in Worsley and Forest Sofa in Broughton secured support from the government-backed manufacturing support scheme Made Smarter North West.
Both were among 30 businesses across the region investing a combined £1.9m in new equipment, software and systems to improve operations with the help of grant funding.
It is hoped that the investment will contribute more than £16.4m to the regional economy over time.
Half of the £48,000 invested by Forest Sofa in a high-end fabric cutting machine came from the grant scheme.
Nick Shepherd, Managing Director of Forest Sofa Ltd, said: “This investment demonstrates our commitment to continuous improvement and securing the long-term future of manufacturing at Forest Sofa.
“The support from Made Smarter has enabled us to embrace advanced technology that will improve productivity, shorten lead times and strengthen the service we provide to our customers.
“Just as importantly, this investment creates opportunities for our people through skills development and the creation of new jobs as the business continues to grow.”
Meanwhile, PP Graphics spent £46,000 on a new customer portal and full systems integration project, supported by a £20,000 grant. The project is forecast to create one new job and upskill nine existing roles.
Andrew McIntyre, General Manager, said: “The new software is a vital part of our automation journey. Artwork is the lifeblood of our business. Getting customer artwork press-ready with minimal back-and-forth improves scheduling, efficiency and right-first-time performance.
“It also gives customers a much smoother experience, allowing them to place orders, upload artwork and manage campaigns through a single portal.
“Made Smarter has been excellent from day one. The team made securing the grant straightforward and stress-free, and I hope this is the start of a long-term relationship.”
Small to medium enterprises across Salford looking to adopt digital technologies have been urged to register with Made Smarter North West and explore the support on offer.
Donna Edwards, Programme Director of Made Smarter North West, said: “Behind each of these projects is a business making a deliberate decision to innovate, grow and become more competitive.
“What is particularly encouraging is that manufacturers are continuing to invest despite ongoing economic pressures. They recognise that digital technologies are no longer a nice-to-have, they are essential to improving productivity, building resilience and creating the skilled jobs that will drive future growth.”
Donna continued: “Made Smarter’s continued success is built on combining expert advice with practical support that gives businesses the confidence to take those next steps. By helping manufacturers identify the right technologies and access funding to accelerate adoption, we are enabling more businesses to unlock growth opportunities and build stronger, more sustainable futures.”
More information about the scheme and how to apply for grant funding is available here.
