A new forum to showcase manufacturing in the West and share best practice has staged its inaugural meeting.
SWIM (South West Innovative Manufacturing) was launched at the National Composites Centre (NCC) on the Bristol & Bath Science Park with the message that, while facing some tough challenges, manufacturing is alive and well in the region.
The group is facilitated by Bristol-based business advisors and accountants BDO, Barclays Corporate and insurance broker and risk advisers Marsh.
SWIM will provide a forum for manufacturers that combines events and seminars, with online knowledge-sharing via a bespoke web page.
It aims to encourage and inspire firms to continually drive their businesses forward and harness the benefits of working with others across a wider network.
John Talbot, of BDO’s Bristol office, said: “Against the uncertain economic backdrop and factors such as changing customer demands, emerging technologies and shifting supply chains, there is a need for all businesses, and especially manufacturers, to balance of the need for short-term gains with long-term sustainability.
“SWIM provides a forum for manufacturers to debate and discuss topical issues, share ideas and best practice with like-minded business leaders.”
As well as offering an introduction to SWIM, the main theme of the launch event was around training and apprenticeships. It explored practical considerations for manufacturers who need to invest in their workforces and their product portfolios and offerings with expert insight from the two speakers: Will Stirling, editor and director of The Manufacturer magazine, and Peter Chivers, chief executive of the NCC.
Attendees had a guided tour of the NCC following the meeting.
Pictured at the SWIM launch are, left to right, Peter Chivers, National Composites Centre chief executive; John Talbot, senior manager, BDO; Paul Amos, client service director, Marsh; Robert Brown, tax director, BDO; Will Stirling, editor and director, The Manufacturer; Mark Lee, head of manufacturing, Barclays Corporate.
