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Scaling in...Manufacturing: Technology's Role in Transforming UK Manufacturing

9.30am – 12.30pm 16 October 2025 One Chamberlain Square, Birmingham, B3 3AX

Scaling in... is a event series designed to help techUK SME members explore new industries and markets. Each session focuses on a specific sector, providing insights into opportunities, challenges, and practical steps for successfully selling into that market.

The UK is home to one of the world's largest manufacturing industries, with the sector contributing over £220bn to the UK economy and providing 2.6 million jobs.

Through automation and new digital technologies, UK manufacturers are reshaping our economy for the better. While some businesses are already reaping the rewards, many manufacturers are yet to embark on their digital journey. The benefits of such investments are staggering, driving up productivity and slashing operational costs, though the most significant productivity gains from digital adoption lie within SMEs.

Join techUK and Make UK as we explore the UK manufacturing sector. We'll discuss the current impact and challenges manufacturers face while operating in the UK, and the technological developments that could support with these. We'll also explore the barriers for manufacturers adopting digital solutions, and ways to address them.

Speakers

Agenda

09.30	Arrivals
10.00	Chair's Opening Remarks
10.05	Overview of the Manufacturing Sector Verity Davidge, Director of Policy and Public Affairs, Make UK
10.15	Closing the Gap: Unlocking Advanced Technologies for All Manufacturers The UK is a global leader in frontier innovation, from AI to Advanced Manufacturing but that progress must reach more businesses, faster. Right now, a growing gap in tech adoption between large and smaller manufacturers risks holding the sector back. This session explores how AI and other advanced technologies are transforming production, and what is needed to help all manufacturers keep pace. We’ll dive into the real barriers: access to finance, skills, and know-how, and what action is needed now to stay globally competitive. Cara Haffey, UK Leader of Industry for Industrials & Services, PwC (Chair) Simon Ince, Chief Technology Officer, Lush
11.05	Technology Spotlights Anna Campbell, Head of Client Engagement and Delivery, Climate Essentials Speaker confirmed from Exception
11.35	Chair's Closing Remarks
11.40	Networking
12.30	Close of Event

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