Telford manufacturers invited to event aimed at boosting productivity

Telford is set to host a manufacturing event aimed at helping businesses boost productivity and efficiency.

‘Driving Productivity in Manufacturing’, organised by Make UK, Telford & Wrekin Council, and Shropshire Chamber of Commerce, will take place at Ricoh UK Products (RPL) in Telford on Tuesday 18 March 2025.

This event will bring together manufacturers from across the county to explore cutting-edge productivity strategies, share best practices, and hear from industry experts on how to stay ahead in an increasingly competitive market. Attendees will also have the opportunity to tour Ricoh’s state-of-the-art facility, gaining first-hand insight into innovative manufacturing processes and the latest advancements in digital technology.

Chris Corkan, Region Director at Make UK, the manufacturers organisation said:

“Manufacturing has a stellar track record for being both productive and resilient. Undoubtedly, driving productivity remains high on the industrial agenda in order to remain competitive and to mitigate soaring costs against the backdrop of economic volatility.

"This exemplar factory tour event will tease out great insights and demonstrate the strong ecosystem of support available in the region for ensuring our sector can continue to innovate and grow. Ricoh UK Products Ltd struck gold during 2024 at the Make UK awards winning the Manufacturing Matters Award for the Midlands & East of England and hosting this event demonstrates their ongoing commitment to the local community.”  

Ricoh UK Products Ltd.’s General Manager (Operations), Tim Ottley said:

“RPL is proud of its 40 years ofmanufacturing and innovation heritage within the Telford and Wrekin area – the birthplace of industry. We look forward to knowledge-sharing with the local manufacturing community and sharing more about our own digital and automation journey and continuous improvement culture.

"At RPL we challenge 'everyone, every day to do something a little bit better than yesterday' and are excited for the opportunity to learn from our colleagues within the region, to carry on our productivity improvement journey.” 

Councillor Ollie Vickers, Telford & Wrekin Council’s Cabinet Member for Economy, said:

"Telford has a rich manufacturing heritage and continues to be a hub for innovation and business growth. This event is a fantastic opportunity for manufacturers to gain valuable insights, network with industry leaders, and see first-hand how leading companies like Ricoh UK Products are driving productivity. As a council, we are committed to supporting our local businesses to thrive, and this event is just one example of how we’re working with industry partners to foster growth and competitiveness."

The event will feature keynote speakers from Make UK and Ricoh, as well as real-world case studies demonstrating how businesses have successfully adopted digital technologies to enhance efficiency and profitability. Attendees will also benefit from networking opportunities, allowing them to connect with industry peers, develop new business relationships, and exchange ideas.

Manufacturers responsible for operations and strategy are encouraged to attend. Spaces are limited, with priority given to Make UK members and manufacturing businesses.

For more information and to register, click here.