Two businesses, Studio Bakery and Chandley Ovens, have joined the ranks of enterprises benefitting from Made Smarter’s pioneering adoption programme, marking a significant step in their digitalisation journey.
Studio Bakery, a Clitheroe-based artisan bakery renowned for its traybakes and cakes, and Chandley Ovens, a manufacturer of commercial bakery equipment, are among the latest recipients of support from the government-funded initiative. This programme aims to bolster businesses’ bottom lines while advancing environmental sustainability through technological integration.
With the inclusion of Studio Bakery and Chandley Ovens, the initiative has now provided matched funding to 300 businesses, facilitating the adoption of diverse technologies such as sensors, robotics, 3D printing, and artificial intelligence (AI).
Allison Metcalf, Managing Director of Studio Bakery, emphasised the transformative impact of Made Smarter’s assistance, commenting: “Working with Made Smarter has been transformational for our bakery business. At a time where we were rapidly expanding, they were there to support us. New technology has increased our productivity and made us more efficient.”
Similarly, Emma Pattison, Managing Director of Chandley Ovens, expressed gratitude for the support, highlighting the strategic alignment between Made Smarter’s offerings and their vision for growth. “Made Smarter has been the perfect partner. Their support has enabled us to build an IT platform suited for our rapidly growing service business,” Pattison said.
The initiative’s impact extends beyond individual businesses, with forecasts projecting the creation of nearly 1,600 new jobs and over 2,850 upskilled roles, contributing £242 million to the economy over the next three years.
Encouraging further participation, Donna Edwards, Director of the Made Smarter Adoption Programme in the North West, emphasised the program’s commitment to engaging with manufacturers and facilitating their technological evolution. “Digital isn’t coming – it’s arrived,” Edwards asserted. “Adopting technologies at the right time and in the right way is the key to unlocking real benefits for industry, society, and the planet.”
As the Government commits to expanding the adoption programme nationwide, manufacturers are urged to seize the opportunity to connect with Made Smarter and leverage the funded support available. This includes digital transformation workshops, expert technology advice, leadership training, and grant funding for digital internships and projects.
Editorial contact:
Editor: Kiran Grewal kgrewal@kennedys.co.uk
