Government-backed automation drive rolled out by BARA

Following recommendations made in an industry study last year, the Application of Automation in UK Manufacturing 27 Sept 2010, the government has now awarded £600,000 to fund an Automating Manufacturing Programme managed by BARA, which aims to encourage the uptake of automation among UK manufacturers. The programme, which commences with immediate effect until 31 March 2013, has been developed by BARA, the British Automation and Robot Association which is a PPMA Group Association, and offers independent, impartial advice to assist manufacturers in their implementation of automation solutions. The primary objective of the programme is to help UK manufacturers increase their competitive edge and gain from the benefits that automation offers including increased productivity, reduced waste and greater profitability. Although the programme primarily looks to assist SMEs throughout all manufacturing sectors within the UK, larger companies with limited knowledge of and expertise in automation are also eligible. "This government funded program is a rare opportunity for UK companies to take what is a risk-free plunge into the automation arena. It could fundamentally change for the better, the way that they do business," said Processing & Packaging Machinery Association CEO Chris Buxton. BARA has selected independent automation advisers who will offer support to the enrolled manufacturers in two stages. The first is a strategic review of their manufacturing operation, commencing with an audit aiming to identify opportunities to improve production through automation, followed by a recommendation report, which is presented at a review meeting. The second stage will provide a more detailed intervention to develop the outcomes from the audit, which will provide the client manufacturer with the knowledge and information required to plan and successfully implement the automation solution. To complement and support the programme, BARA is organising a second series of Automation Roadshows (planned for November 2011) at automation user sites where, for those considering the introduction of similar technologies, attendees will not only be able to see first-hand the latest automation in use, but will learn of the user's experience during their adoption of automation. "Manufacturers keen to increase their global competitiveness and improve profitability are invited to make an application to the Automating Manufacturing Programme online at www.automatingmanufacturing.co.uk and take advantage of the expertise available," said BARA President Mike Wilson. "The dedicated website will also inform interested parties details of forthcoming automation events, provide access to case studies and contain information relating to every aspect of the Programme. If UK manufacturing is to fulfil its potential of becoming a significant force in global markets then automation needs to be at its very heart – the Automating Manufacturing Programme will go a long way to aid this."