EEF, which represents manufacturers across the south west, is to run a week long
campaign to promote the success of the sector in the region and to underline the
need for a more balanced economy.
The week – from March 1-5 – will involve a series of regional and national
events around the UK aimed at manufacturers, politicians of all parties
including prospective parliamentary candidates, and other key stakeholders.
The events will include regional debates and company visits, with the week
culminating in the launch of EEF’s manufacturing manifesto. This will suggest
refreshed policies to create an internationally competitive business environment
for manufacturing and one that sends the right signals to would-be investors and
a pro-active agenda for growth.
“The week long campaign is aimed at debunking the popular myth that the UK has
lost its manufacturing base,” says Clive Turner, Head of Representation for EEF
in the South West. “Among the many initiatives will be invitations to
prospective parliamentary candidates to visit local manufacturing facilities and
to show their support for the sector by adding their name to a roll-call on a
dedicated Manufacturing Week website.”
The South West will feature three major events:
- A debate on the future of manufacturing at GKN in Filton, Bristol, on March 4
- Two Manufacturing Connect events – at Knorr Brems in Melksham, Wiltshire on
March 3, and at Numatic in Chard, Somerset, on March 2, which will provide
companies with the opportunity to network, swap ideas on important issues facing
our sector, followed by a tour of the facilities.
Manufacturing in the South West is estimated to be worth around £12bn to the
regional economy and employs around 270,000 people
Says Clive Turner: “This week will provide the perfect opportunity to explain to
politicians and the wider public why manufacturing, as part of a balanced
economy, is so important to our future. As a nation, our over-reliance on
financial services has been exposed, and so the challenge for the next
government – whatever the colour – will be to think and act differently. It’s a
huge task but we have to start now.”
Companies wishing to get involved in the week and the campaign can do so by
visiting the manufacturing week website www.lovemanufacturing.co.uk
