Pictured above: Simon Griffiths
Aerospace still remains one of the most important manufacturing
sectors to the West Midlands economy according to a leading
industry specialist.
Simon Griffiths, Chief Executive of the Manufacturing Advisory
Service - West Midlands (MAS-WM), believes the sector has fared
better than most from the recent recession and holds billion pounds
worth of new opportunities for a supply chain that numbers over 400
companies.
The rallying cry was made on the eve of the international
Farnborough Air Show, where more than 20 regional specialists will
be showcasing their expertise and products to more than 100,000
potential buyers thanks to a link-up between MAS-WM and the
Midlands Aerospace Alliance (MAA).
Seen as the most effective way of harnessing the West Midlands'
diverse capabilities, the iconic stand will feature firms ranging
from CHH CoNeX and Aluminium Special Products to Premier Aerospace
and MAN, a ten-strong group of manufacturers.
"Aerospace sales for the UK this year are up 5.4% to
£22.5bn, with 70% of that work set to be completed for
overseas markets," explained Simon Griffiths.
"And Farnborough is seen as one of the truly global events,
where new models such as the Airbus A380 and F22 Raptor will be
unveiled. There will also be an unprecedented opportunity to meet
with aircraft manufacturers and major tier 1s in a bid to win work
that filters down the supply chain.
"It was about time the region had a major presence at the show
and working with the MAA we believe we've pulled together some of
the most dynamic companies in the West Midlands, companies that
provide state-of-the-art flight systems, hi-tech titanium
components and precision safety parts."
The former Land Rover and GKN Engineer also used the opportunity
to urge local businesses to follow in the footsteps of its famous
predecessors who have been behind the invention of the airplane and
the jet engine by Sir Frank Whittle.
He points to an already-present commitment to designing new
products and services, not to mention some of the most cutting-edge
research and development facilities in the world.
"We have to be more pro-active in promoting what we do in the
aerospace market so we can stake our claim to be involved in the
aircraft of the future."
Simon went on to add: "Our supply chain is world class in every
aspect and we are building on this by continuing to roll-out the
Supply Chains for the 21st century programme in the region."
More than 100 suppliers are already embarked on the initiative,
which helps them become more competitive by improving performance,
reducing costs and in cultivating stronger supply chains.
G&O Springs and A&M EDM have already secured bronze
awards as part of their commitment, with the industry view being
that SC21 will be essential in securing new contracts going
forward.
Simon concluded: "The A|D|S report leading in to Farnborough
shows the UK remains number one in Europe and is responsible for
100,000 highly skilled people across 2600 companies.
"Pleasingly, productivity was up 6.2% per employee and the
number of young people studying industry-related subjects rose by
6% - further indications that the sector is vibrant and here to
stay."