I attended a very informative breakfast event today at HSBC in Fulwood, Preston. The event focused on developing growth strategies for Lancashire manufacturers. There were some interesting messages coming from the event, which I have summarised below.
According to the 2014 MHA Manufacturing and Engineering Survey Report:
92% of Manufacturers surveyed are expecting business growth upwards of 10%
62% are expecting an increase in staff numbers
85% of Manufacturers are predicting investment in Research and Development activities
There is a lot of optimism within the sector although the most significant issue is the skills gap
This information was backed up by Darrell Matthews of EEF who
The Leadership and Management Advisory Service provides tailored advice and support to senior leaders within small and medium sized businesses and social enterprises that can clearly demonstrate the potential for high growth. The service provides access to funding of up to £1,000 to be equally matched by the business on a 50% basis to invest in training and development of the owner or senior manager. Eligibility The business must be: based in North West England between 2-249 full time equivalent employees (excluding volunteers) a Small to Medium Enterprise (SME) a private sector company or social enterprise (which must not more than 50% publicly funded) assessed as having the
