At a time when the UK Manufacturing sector is feeling reinvigorated and curiously optimistic about the current renaissance in all things manufactured within the UK, it was good to see a very strong turnout at this years SMMT Automotive Open Forum, an event organised for and including the UKs leading Automotive Manufacturers and Suppliers.
During the event, Mick Aiers, Purchasing Manager for General Motors highlighted recent, high-value investment in facilities by a number of vehicle manufacturers in the UK, explaining how this can pave the way for a stronger automotive supply base. With the Automotive Council revealing more than £3 billion of opportunities for the domestic supply chain, Mr Aiers emphasised that suppliers must proactively pursue these prospects, making sure they do all they can to promote their products and identify ways to overcome barriers to growth.
Other key Speakers with just as inspiring presentations included, Chris Gane, Managing Director of Caparo Materials Engineering, explaining OEMs should have a greater confidence in the UK Supply Chain.
Andy Wareing, Purchasing Director for Nissan shared the views of the panel, emphasising that the UK automotive sector is in a growth phase and now is the time for UK suppliers to actively follow all business avenues. He stated that Nissan is firmly committed to working closely with the domestic supply chain and already spends 50% of its component procurement in the UK. Mr Wareing urged supply companies to take advantage of the resources and events offered by SMMT and the Automotive Council and take advantage of all opportunities.
Rical Group, a key Automotive Supplier of Metal Pressings, Fine Blank and Die casting components with its history and pedigree placed firmly within the West Midlands area of the United Kingdom was very proud to be a part of this important event and was also keen to raise its profile, not only with the Major OEMs who attended the event but also with the vast number of other suppliers at the Networking events that took part during the day.
Mr Byron Head Chairman of the Rical Group, along with Mr Paul Bale, Chief Operations Officer and Mr Paul Marsh, Group Financial Director joined with the Sales Team of Rical Group to actively engage with Manufacturers at all levels citing that collaboration between UK manufacturing Companies was key to the continued growth of the UK economy.