A pioneering company in Greater Manchester is among the first in the country to benefit from a government-backed programme designed to boost UK manufacturing productivity and growth.

Animators and puppet-makers Mackinnon & Saunders, based in Altrincham, is aiming to transform its businesses by adopting new digital technologies through the £20M Made Smarter Programme.

It is among a cohort of nine North West companies who have successfully applied for Made Smarter matched-funding, allowing them to explore and adopt leading-edge advanced manufacturing methods such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), 3D-printing and robotics.

Over the last three decades Mackinnon & Saunders have brought to life some of children’s most beloved TV characters including Bob the Builder, Postman Pat and the new Clangers, and collaborated with Hollywood director Tim Burton on Mars Attacks!, Frankenweenie and Corpse Bride and Wes Anderson on Fantastic Mr. Fox.

In recent years, the company has been increasing its use of computer-aided design and 3D printing technology.

The forward-thinking firm now wants to embrace the very latest developments in additive manufacturing and innovative software solutions to help design and create its models.

These new processes will increase the quality and accuracy of the company’s products, boost efficiency and increase export sales opportunities.

Peter Saunders, Director of Mackinnon & Saunders, said that exploiting the potential of these new developments will help the company maintain its position as a world leader in its sector.

“Recent improvements in CAD, virtual sculpting and, in particular, some incredible ground-breaking developments in 3D printing, are creating new opportunities for us to utilise digital technology alongside the traditional craft skills associated with puppet-making.

“Working closely with some of the most innovative digital companies in the world will put the company in the best position to capitalise on new products and markets and give us a technological advantage over our international rivals.

“We are excited to benefit from the Made Smarter business support program.”

Donna Edwards, Director of the Made Smarter North West pilot, said: “I am delighted that the Made Smarter pilot has now supported the first successful SME applications, including Mackinnon & Saunders.

“We have found businesses are enthusiastic about the benefits of adopting new digital technology. Often, they need funding support, alongside specialist advice and insight to help them select the right approach for their business.

“This is exactly how Made Smarter can and is helping businesses across the Greater Manchester region.

“Made Smarter is relevant for any North West SMEs who make, create, manufacture or engineer, and I urge local businesses not to miss this opportunity. I would encourage anyone who may be interested to register today for a fully-funded audit of your operations and see how Made Smarter might be able to help you.”

The Manufacturers Alliance celebrated its 2^nd annual conference at the AJ Bell Stadium. The conference has been the biggest to date with over 100 attendees, including a diverse range of speakers sharing best practice.

Created specifically for small and medium sized businesses in the manufacturing industry, the Manufacturers Alliance run peer support groups for senior manufacturing leaders, who meet on a monthly basis to share ideas and solve their most challenging business issues. Its members are experienced managing directors and senior decision makers, so each peer group boasts a wealth of expertise and knowledge.

Manufacturing leaders at the conference inspired attendees by taking the stage and sharing insights into what has worked well for them. A few of the best practice themes included; Doubling the Size of Your Business, Digital Transformation, Inspiring Leadership, Improving Productivity and Using Your Values to Drive Your Culture.

Gary Knight, Managing Director at Wheatley Plastics said: “It’s great to interact with other group members and see their journeys in business but more importantly, it’s so beneficial to have access to the tools and techniques of business growth and leadership and how I can apply that to the day to day running of my business.”

Manufacturing support organisations such as Make UK, Business Growth Hub, Made Smarter, Manchester Metropolitan University and Lloyds Bank, shared how they have engaged with and supported the development of local SME manufacturing businesses in the current economic and political climate.

David Searle, Chairman of South Manchester & Cheshire Groups said: “It was a great day and inspiring to see over 100 manufacturing leaders from SME businesses in the same room together all with a desire to learn and improve. It bodes well for the future of British manufacturing.”

Hoffmaster Group, Inc, a leading U.S. manufacturer of premium disposable tableware, has announced the acquisition of Manchester-based The Paper Straw Co, the U.K.’s first paper straw manufacturer. This agreement increases Hoffmaster’s ability to service the U.K. and European markets in an efficient and effective manner.

Co-Founders Geert Pijper and Ilesh Mawji launched The Paper Straw Co in April 2018 in response to the growing demand for environmentally friendly alternatives to single-use plastic straws. In 2018, the U.K. and the European Union announced its ban of single-use plastics, including straws, which would go into effect by 2021. The Paper Straw Co provides U.K. and European customers with the opportunity to purchase paper straws made locally.

“At The Paper Straw Co, we manufacture sturdy paper straws made up of certified raw materials. Rather than shipping them thousands of miles away, which would reduce their environmental credentials, we serve local customers in our own backyard,” said Pijper. “Joining Hoffmaster presents excellent opportunities for our business. Hoffmaster’s 75+ years of experience in the foodservice industry has given them the necessary expertise, equipment and resources to ensure that our customers will continue to receive exceptional service and the highest quality products on the market.”

Hoffmaster also operates Aardvark Straws, the world’s leading paper straw manufacturer based in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and its own line of paper straws. The Paper Straw Co will remain under the same banner. Pijper and Mawji will continue to run the business, while all employees will continue to work for the company in Manchester. This acquisition will provide both Hoffmaster and The Paper Straw Co with the ability to better serve their European customers by increasing the U.K.’s manufacturing capacity and production of paper straws. In order to produce the best quality straws in the U.K., Hoffmaster will apply the same methodology that is used for Aardvark Straws, often referred to as the strongest paper straws on the market, to The Paper Straw Co straws.

“We are thrilled to be working closely with The Paper Straw Co team to progress in our mission to solve our world’s plastic pollution crisis and serve as a reliable supply source for European businesses, restaurants, and venues seeking durable paper straws,” said Andy Romjue, president of Hoffmaster’s Foodservice Division. “This acquisition is a strategic and important addition to the portfolio of Hoffmaster brands. It expands our global footprint into the U.K. and also allows us to reach our international customers conveniently while improving our customer service experience.”