Government-backed Made Smarter programmes are helping print, graphics and signage manufacturers invest in digital technologies to improve productivity, expand capacity and create jobs across the North West, South East and Yorkshire.
Andrews Signs & Engravers invested £35,650 in a wide-format machine
A number of SMEs have secured grant funding to support investments in automation, workflow software and production technology, alongside access to digital transformation advice, leadership training and skills development.
Cumbria-based Firpress Printers received a £20,000 Made Smarter grant towards a £40,000 investment in the PrintIQ cloud-based management information system. The platform integrates quoting, production, scheduling, inventory management and customer communications, with the company expecting improved efficiency, increased production capacity and the creation of three new jobs.
Co-owner Kerri Black said: “Made Smarter gave us the confidence to take a step we simply wouldn’t have taken on our own. The new system will transform the way we operate, reducing administration, improving visibility across the business and helping us respond more quickly to customers. It’s about having the right tools in place to make better decisions, work more efficiently and grow the business at a pace that’s sustainable and right for us.”
Andrew McIntyre (left) and Tony Marsh of PP Graphics
Greater Manchester-based PP Graphics invested £46,000 in a customer portal and systems integration project, supported by a £20,000 grant. The new software is designed to automate artwork approval, improve customer communications and streamline scheduling. The investment is expected to create one new role while upskilling nine existing employees.
Identity Printing, also based in Greater Manchester, received a £20,000 grant towards a £45,000 investment in a Resolute DTF UV Faux Embroidery System. The garment print specialist says the technology will expand its product offering, improve production efficiency and create three new jobs while upskilling two members of staff.
In Kent, fine art printing company Art4Site secured a £20,000 Made Smarter South East grant to support a £40,000 investment in a large-format scanner. The company says the system has created the UK’s largest flatbed fine art scanning facility, reducing scanning times, improving colour accuracy and supporting a more integrated print-on-demand workflow. The project is expected to create two jobs and upskill five employees.
Meanwhile, Wakefield-based Ashleigh Signs received a £14,500 grant towards an £80,000 investment in automation technology to establish a new manufacturing cell, while York-based Andrews Signs & Engravers invested £35,650 in a wide-format digital printing system, supported by a £15,000 grant. Both companies expect the investments to improve productivity, increase manufacturing capacity and support future growth.
Alongside grant funding, Made Smarter provides SME manufacturers with digital transformation workshops, technology advice, leadership and skills training, and access to a digital internship programme.
