08:15 AM Registration and networking with Sponsors
09:00 AM Opening & welcome: Andrew Delaney, Programme Director, Finelight Media Group
09:05 AM
Opening Panel: Building the manufacturing organisation of 2035 – are we on the right path?
• What does manufacturing look like in 2035 or 2040? How do we evolve toward a more adaptive, sustainable, and resilient manufacturing model?
• In light of the current climate— including tariffs, environmental pressures, and global uncertainty— how can technology help organisations manage their environmental impact, build supply chain resilience, and localise operations more effectively?
• What are the distinct and evolving roles of digital technologies and data strategy – and why do both matter for long-term transformation?
• What are the key roadblocks? From labour shortages and tariff regimes to geopolitical volatility and policy uncertainty – what’ s holding back progress?
• Strategies to manage supply chain disruptions, fluctuating demand, and the growing need for operational flexibility
• How can manufacturers align long-term technology investments, regulatory compliance, and sustainability goals with today’ s economic and environmental realities?
09:35 AM Use-cases & Q & A: Lightning talks on AI in manufacturing
This panel brings together leading experts to share their expertise in real-world applications & strategic considerations. Three 10-minute presentations / use cases to delve into the intricacies of AI adoption in manufacturing. The discussion will uncover best practices, challenges, and innovative approaches to gaining business value more efficiently. Followed by Q & As with the presenters on:
• How AI enhances efficiency, productivity, cost reduction, labour and overhead reductions and help to manage the costs of energy in your organisation
• Approaches on designing frameworks for selecting AI applications with high ROI
• Discussing the main organisational challenges in AI adoption across different verticals
• Overcoming obstacle in AI implementation from human perspective
10:20 AM Keynote: Digital Twins in manufacturing – what, why and how?
• Why are manufacturers creating digital twins to optimise their factory operations
• What tangible returns can digital twins deliver, and how can you effectively measure ROI across different stages of implementation?
• What impact can digital twins have on production visibility, demand forecasting and inventory processes?
• Using a digital twin as a framework for‘ what-if’ scenario testing, forecasting and planning
• How to integrate existing Manufacturing Execution Systems( MESs) and IoT devices for a holistic view of operations