The Coalition Government claims that a new version of an initiative intended to secure the future of England’s beleaguered small and medium-sized manufacturers will create 23,000 new jobs and safeguard a further 50,000.
Previously operating on a regional basis and run by the now disbanded Regional Development Agencies, the Manufacturing Advisory Service will operate nationally and be adminstered by a consortium of organisations, including accountancy firm, Grant Thornton. Ministers attested that the move would help to generate £1.5 billion in economic growth terms.
Business minister Mark Prisk said: “Manufacturing contributes half of Britain’s exports and has much higher productivity than the rest of the economy so it is essential to our plans for growth. That is why we are taking steps to ensure our industrial base is thriving as part of a strong and balanced UK economy. The new Manufacturing Advisory Service will play a key role, providing tailored advice to businesses helping them to grow and thrive, with a specific focus on helping SMEs improve competitiveness and unlock their growth potential.”
Grant Thornton’s Karl Eddy, who is heading up MAS, added: “As we drive this historically successful programme in to a new era, we encourage business leaders, innovators and entrepreneurs in the manufacturing sector to contact a local advisor to find out more about how MAS can deliver real benefits for their business.”
Online support will be provided to businesses via the MAS website, funding and a key focus is to help SMEs diversify into advanced manufacturing supply.
