Four food and drink manufacturers target growth through innovation with Made Smarter ’ s digital transformation workshops
Four food and drink manufacturers are targeting growth through innovation through a new , streamlined workshop process which aims to speed up their digital transformation .
Hall & Roberts ( Provisions ), specialist bacon curer and processors in Widnes , Simply Doughnuts , based in Blackburn , Riverbank Catering , based in Kendal , and Shed 1 Distillery , a craft gin producer based in Ulverston , are working with Made Smarter , the movement helping SME manufacturers adopt digital technologies .
They are using a digital transformation workshop , a process designed to accelerate manufacturing growth by identifying digital tools and technologies that can maximise operational processes and enhance business growth .
Working with a Made Smarter adviser , the fully-funded workshop , bespoke to individual business needs , involves two online sessions , a two-hour diagnostic of the business ’ s product , services , processes and people , and a onehour ‘ findings ’ presentation to make recommendations for practical solutions to overcome business challenges .
The workshop ’ s output , together with subsequent sessions with Made Smarter digital technology advisers , are used to develop a digital transformation strategy tailored to the needs of the business .
It will include an easy-to-use guide for decision-makers with recommended first steps , a technology roadmap , and information about how to get further support from the programme such as funding for digital tools .
There will also be a printable wall graphic to share with the wider workforce to bring everyone along on the journey .
51 companies involved in the Made Smarter North West adoption pilot have either completed or signed up to the workshops since they were launched in August .
Made Smarter technology expert Kevin Smith , one of the specialists running the new workshops , said : “ The use of technologies is becoming essential in order to cut costs and enhance the customer experience .
52 FDPP - www . fdpp . co . uk