Manufacturing forum report upsurge in members

A North East manufacturing group has revealed an upsurge in membership amid a receding recession and recognition of its expanding influence and expertise.

Five sector specialists have joined the South Tyneside Manufacturing Forum (STMF) in recent weeks as economic momentum grows and business confidence returns.

Additionally, the same number of businesses from a variety of professional service industries have signed as associate members.

STMF bosses say they are thrilled at the diverse geographical area from which members have arrived, a reflection they feel on the growing awareness among manufacturers across the region of the benefits and support available.

New members are Rotary Power, part of British Engines, ICE Print and Design, Complete Fabrication Services and Katysue Designs, all based in South Tyneside, Newburn-based Spincraft, and RUBB Buildings, whose headquarters are at Team Valley in Gateshead.

Associate members are Rainton Bridge-based human resources business Oculus HR, Arcterra, in Boldon, South Tyneside, Professional People Management in Sunderland, Newcastle University, and JC Events, which is headquartered in South Shields.

Jack Hanwell, STMF manager, said: “Membership of the forum brings many benefits and manufacturers and other businesses are becoming increasingly aware of this.

“Its influence is steadily growing throughout the North East, and it is important that companies are aware of the excellent work it does in supporting its members.

“Our members are forward-thinking and have great confidence in their businesses. Each brings something unique to the table and they are willing to share their knowledge with others.

“Our new members and associate members are very important additions to the success and vitality of the forum.”

Attracting new members from throughout the North East is part of STMF’s strategy to extend its influence beyond South Tyneside’s borders and into areas where no such expert organisation exists.

With members already in North Tyneside, Northumberland, Newcastle and Gateshead, in January it revealed plans to expand into Sunderland and Washington, which have many important and growing businesses and industries.

Geoff Willis, managing director of Rotary Power, which designs, develops and manufactures hydraulic pumps and motors to the world-wide construction, marine, subsea, offshore, forestry, chemical and recycling industries, said: “Having recently moved our manufacturing facility to South Tyneside from Newcastle to enable our growth, I felt it was important to work with like-minded businesses to continue to share best practice and knowledge. We have a long heritage of manufacturing in the north east and we feel it is vital to work together as an industry to safe-guard this vital part of our economy.”

And Brian Batchelor, managing director of Spincraft, which serves a wide variety of performance critical sectors, including defence, oil and gas and aerospace with high quality, precision made components and sub-assemblies, added: “We look to the STMF to provide a thought-provoking environment where best practice may be shared, knowledge disseminated, and members can call upon the collective expertise of the forum for the introduction and deployment of new practices.

Complete Fabrication Services specialise in bespoke metal fabrication work using systematic, automated, computer-controlled processes, while RUBB Buildings designs and manufactures relocatable and permanent engineered fabric structures including military hangers, shelters, warehouses and workshops.

And ICE Print and Design carries out all aspects of print, design, marketing and promotional works with a range of products which include flyers, banners, posters, and restaurant and take-away menus.

The STMF, which is based within the new £5.4 million One Trinity Green eco centre in Eldon Street, South Shields, provides a platform for members to share knowledge and best practice to create business growth, success and opportunities.

It engages with the wider business community to exchange ideas, advocate best practices, advance technology, network, educate and inspire change, at all times aiming to support manufacturers in sustaining and growing their business.

Members also share best practice in key business areas including lean manufacturing, supply chain, marketing, sales, human resource, finance and the environment, while working collaboratively to reduce the costs of services and materials. The introduction of two new sub groups dedicated to HR and Maintenance demonstrates a further commitment to two important business support topics.

Other aims include promoting the importance of a healthy workforce, to collaborate with education establishments to prepare young people for a career in manufacturing, and to establish manufacturing as an attractive and rewarding career choice for young people.

Their next event takes place on Wednesday, 16th April. Speakers include Pamela Petty, MD of Ebac who will be sharing her story about Ebac’s journey into the manufacture of white goods. In addition, a new monthly slot entitled ‘Meet the New Members’ will, this month, give Rotary Power and RUBB Buildings the opportunity to inform delegates of their capabilities.