(L-R) General manager Andrew McIntyre and head of graphics Tony Marsh at PP Graphics
SME manufacturers in the print, graphics and signage sector are investing in digital technologies to boost productivity, create new jobs and strengthen competitiveness with support from Made Smarter, a government-backed programme.
Businesses producing commercial print, fine art reproductions, garment printing, specialist graphics, signage and packaging tooling are among those embracing automation, digital workflow systems and advanced production technologies after grants from Government-backed programmes in the North West, South East and Yorkshire.
They include Firpress Printers, based in Workington, Cumbria, which secured a £20,000 Made Smarter grant towards a £40,000 investment in PrintIQ, a cloud-based management information system. The technology brings quoting, production, scheduling, inventory and customer communications into a single platform, helping the business improve efficiency, increase production capacity and create 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.”
In Greater Manchester, PP Graphics invested £46,000 in a customer portal and systems integration project, supported by a £20,000 Made Smarter grant. The new software will automate artwork approval, streamline customer communications and improve scheduling, efficiency and right-first-time performance, while creating a new job and upskilling nine existing employees.
General Manager Andrew McIntyre said: “The new software is a vital part of our automation journey. Artwork is the lifeblood of our business. Getting customer artwork press-ready with minimal back and forth improves scheduling, efficiency and right-first-time performance. It also gives customers a much smoother experience, allowing them to place orders, upload artwork and manage campaigns through a single portal.”
As well as grant funding, Made Smarter offers SME manufacturers a range of support, including digital transformation workshops, impartial technology advice, leadership and skills training, and a digital internship programme.
