Launched in 2019 to help businesses digitise, decarbonise and drive growth, Made Smarter is a government-funded and industry-led initiative. The scheme has helped 70 Lancashire-based businesses with £1.5M towards 82 technology projects, worth £6.1M after £4.6M in private sector investment.
By adopting cutting-edge technologies, Made Smarter helps businesses benefit from improved productivity and revenue, increased exports and job creation, an upskilled workforce, lower energy bills, and a reduced carbon footprint.
Butlers Farmhouse Cheeses are proud to have become more flexible and agile after investing in software systems and are now looking at improving other areas of the business.
Daniel Hall, Owner, said: “We’re driving innovation across the market to meet the needs of our customers, and with a growing team, we’re always looking for more ways to optimise our efficiency and support and motivate our people to be their best.
“Digitising key areas of our production has enabled us to visualise key trends and insights on screens in real-time, helping the team to make quick decisions through transparency of data. The investment has had a really positive impact.
Commenting on the programme’s achievement, Donna Edwards, director of the North West adoption programme, said: “When we launched the Made Smarter adoption programme four years ago our ambition was to boost growth, productivity, efficiency and create high value, well paid jobs of the future, as well as play a vital role to help accomplish the UK’s aim of reaching net-zero greenhouse gases by 2050.
“Digital adoption is still rife and robust in the SME sector. It’s been great to see that so many firms have tapped into our expertise to help them select the right approach for their business, how much to invest and which technologies will bring the greatest benefits. 2023 promises to be another busy year for Made Smarter.
“As trailblazers, we are tremendously proud of our achievements working together with the manufacturers we have supported, but now is not the time to rest on our laurels. More challenges lie ahead for manufacturers as they navigate a multitude of demands on their businesses, whilst also trying to keep up with the rapid pace of change. So, I would encourage any NW manufacturers who are wondering where to go next with technology to help manage their business more efficiently and sustainably to get in touch with the Made Smarter team.”
