Revamped support scheme aims to boost England's manufacturers

Posted by Dan Martin in Business trends on Tue, 03/01/2012 - 14:07
factory chimneys

A new version of the government's initiative aimed at securing the future of England's beleaguered small manufacturers has been officially launched.

Previously operating on a regional basis and run by the disbanded Regional Development Agencies, the Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS) will now operate nationally and be adminstered by a consortium of organisations including accountants Grant Thornton.  

Ministers claim that new MAS will help to generate £1.5bn in economic growth, create 23,000 new jobs and safeguard another 50,000 jobs. Services provided include online support on the MAS website, funding and a focus on helping SMEs diversify into advanced manufacturing supply.

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, head of 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."
 

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