< PreviousENGINEERING © stock.adobe.com/Monkey Business 4.0 Industry www.blmforum.net Business Link 31 ENGINEERING One of the prominent trends driving the engineering and manufacturing industries is the integration of advanced automation and digital technologies. T he engineering and manufacturing industries have been undergoing significant transformations in recent years. In the face of rising energy costs, combined with government pressure across all industries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, a large focus over recent years has been innovating ways to reduce emissions whilst performing everyday tasks. From advancements in automation and sustainable manufacturing to the transition towards electric vehicles, these sectors are adapting to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving world. One of the prominent trends driving the engineering and manufacturing industries is the integration of advanced automation and digital technologies. The concept of Industry 4.0, characterized by the fusion of cyber-physical systems, automation, and data exchange, is revolutionizing production processes and enhancing operational efficiency. Initiatives such as the “Made Smarter” campaign, launched in 2017, aim to accelerate the adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies across manufacturing. In 2023, this drive towards automation is expected to continue, enabling businesses to streamline operations, increase productivity, and remain competitive on a global scale. Sustainability has become a key focus for the engineering and manufacturing industries. As the world grapples with climate change and environmental concerns, businesses are recognizing the need for greener practices. In line with the government’s recently extended goal to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, the manufacturing sector is actively embracing sustainable manufacturing initiatives. Efforts are being made to reduce carbon emissions, optimize waste management, and enhance energy efficiency throughout the production process. The integration of renewable energy sources and the adoption of circular economy principles are also gaining traction. We can expect further advancements in sustainable manufacturing practices as businesses strive to minimize their environmental impact while maintaining profitability. As alluded to above, the principles of the circular economy are being increasingly utilised, turning traditional linear production models on their head. Circular economy principles aim to minimize 33 Á32 Business Link www.blmforum.net ENGINEERING Kingston Engineering Co. (Hull) Ltd Pennington Street, Hull, East Yorkshire. HUB 7LD. UK Tel: +44 (0)1482 325676 Email: sales@kingston-engineering.co.uk Website: www.kingston-engineering.co.uk Specialised precision machined components Corrosion prevention Component reclamation and enhancement Production machinery maintenance and repair Ex-stock power nuts and screws Specialised power screw products Leading Specialist Manufacturer and Producers of Bespoke Power Screws Over One Hundred Years Of Engineering Excellence© stock.adobe.com/Blue Planet Studio www.blmforum.net Business Link 33 ENGINEERING waste, maximize resource efficiency, and promote the reuse, recycling, and repurposing of materials. In the context of manufacturing, this involves designing products for durability, easy disassembly, and the recovery of valuable materials. Companies are implementing closed- loop systems, where materials are recycled or regenerated, reducing reliance on finite resources, and minimizing environmental impact. Additionally, collaboration within supply chains is crucial to optimize material flows, ensure responsible sourcing, and promote circular practices at every stage of production. Ultimately, adopting a circular economy seeks to extend the lifespan of the individual manufacturer, as well as aiding the environment. Reducing waste generation and conserving resources safeguards a company’s operations against government waste reduction sanctions, and allows operations to diversify, thus extending beyond the limited resources available. The transition towards electric vehicles (EVs) is another significant development in the engineering and manufacturing industries. The government’s decision to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030 has accelerated the demand for EVs. This shift not only impacts the automotive sector but also drives changes across the entire manufacturing supply chain. In 2023, there has been a noticeably increased investment in the production of electric vehicles, including the manufacturing of batteries, electric motors, and charging infrastructure. The engineering industry will play a crucial role in developing innovative technologies to support the growth of EVs, such as improvements in battery performance and charging speed. This transition towards electric mobility presents both challenges and opportunities for businesses as they adapt their manufacturing processes to meet the rising demand for cleaner and more sustainable transportation. Last year, the Highway Code was updated to incorporate the regulation of self-driving vehicles. Engineering and manufacturing has played a significant role in the development of driverless cars, with industrial hubs in Oxford, Cambridge, and Bristol trialling the latest technology. The government are especially keen to embrace these vehicles as soon as possible, due to their accident reduction capabilities. In fact, driverless vehicles can offer numerous safety advantages. One of the primary benefits is the reduction of human error, which is responsible for most accidents on the road. By eliminating distractions, fatigue, and impaired judgment, autonomous vehicles can operate continuously and without risk of human- related errors. Additionally, self-driving vehicles are equipped with advanced sensors, cameras, and artificial intelligence algorithms, providing a 360-degree view of surroundings, allowing for faster detection and response to potential hazards. Consistent adherence to traffic laws and safe driving practices further enhances safety, as autonomous vehicles are not influenced by human emotions or risky behaviour. Digital transformation is revolutionizing the engineering and manufacturing industries. By harnessing technologies such as artificial intelligence, internet of things (IoT), and cloud computing, businesses are optimizing processes, improving product quality, and enabling predictive maintenance. The collection and analysis of real-time data allow Kirkby Lindsey - Hull Branch 01482 223937 • info@kirkby-lindsey.co.uk Eclipse - York Branch admin@eclipse-electrical.co.uk • 01904 692783 Experts in the repair, rewind and supply of electric motors, geared motors, pumps & fans. Hazardous Area Motor (ATEX) Repair specialists with fully certified IEC Ex service facility. Visit www.kirkbyeclipse.com for more information. 34 Á34 Business Link www.blmforum.net ENGINEERING manufacturers to make data-driven decisions, reduce downtime, and enhance overall operational efficiency. In the first half of 2023, there has been a concerted effort to further integrate digital technologies, with an increased focus on cybersecurity and data privacy. The adoption of advanced analytics and machine learning algorithms will enable manufacturers to gain deeper insights into their operations and drive continuous improvement. Moreover, the use of digital platforms and collaborative tools facilitates communication and cooperation within the supply chain, fostering innovation and agility. The engineering and manufacturing industries are experiencing significant developments this year, the effects of which are anticipated to influence the direction of developments for the next 3 to 5 years. From the integration of advanced automation and sustainable manufacturing practices to the transition towards electric vehicles, these sectors are adapting to meet the challenges and opportunities of the modern world. By embracing innovation, driving sustainability, and leveraging digital technologies, businesses can position themselves at the forefront of global engineering and manufacturing excellence. The ongoing advancements in these industries contribute to economic growth, job creation, and a more sustainable future for the region. DIRECT GASKETS LIMITED For over 30 years we have been market leaders in the manufacture of Gaskets. Here at Direct Gaskets we aim to be versatile in our company. We supply gaskets – bespoke and standard – to all types of businesses. Contact us today on 01482 219655 or visit our website www.direct‐gaskets.co.uk Units 26 ‐ 36 | Dansom Lane South Hull | HU8 7LA Email: info@direct‐gaskets.co.uk © stock.adobe.com/Nataliya Horawww.blmforum.net Business Link 35 CORPORATE HOSPITALITY A s we sit in a cost of doing business crisis, and inflation remains stubborn, many companies may be finding the price of organising corporate events too high despite their myriad benefits - from facilitating networking to improving customer and staff retention. There are a plethora of ways, however, to bring the cost of these events down to a more acceptable budget without damaging their quality. Venue The venue you choose for an event can often make or break its success. That doesn’t mean there aren’t steps to take to scale back the cost though. Where you stage an event will have a significant impact on the budget, so in the early moments of planning ensure to look at several venues in different locations, think outside the box, and be fully prepared with your queries. What do you expect your headcount to be? What kind of space do you need? What facilities are essential? Shopping around will also boost your ability to negotiate and drive down a venue’s cost. You may want to look at hotels, conference centres, theatres, community centres, ballrooms, or simple board rooms depending on the number of attendees. If suitable, your own office may even be the ideal location for your event and completely removes the Controlling corporate event costs © stock.adobe.com/kasto Business event expenditures are increasing, requiring organisers to mitigate the costs. 36 Á36 Business Link www.blmforum.net CORPORATE HOSPITALITY price of renting a space. Wherever you select, make sure to book plenty of time ahead to secure the best deal and circumvent a surge in pricing. When approaching venues be flexible in your dates to avoid restricting your options. This can open up many more cost saving opportunities as lower rates are found on accommodation at low and off peak times — hosting a Christmas soiree on the first Friday in December for example will be much more expensive than holding it on a Thursday in January. Scheduling events during the day instead of the evening is also often less expensive. Furthermore, if running a repeating event, consider using the same location each time to establish a partnership. It is also crucial to look out for hidden venue costs. Some will present additional fees associated with furniture, bars, cleaning, parking, setup and teardown, et al., so review contracts carefully before signing to avoid being charged for things not discussed. Vendors One of the greatest expenses in event production is hiring vendors such as caterers, A/V equipment, entertainment, and speakers. Much like how booking a venue early can bring down its price, the same stands for your vendors and suppliers. As soon as your venue is booked, reach out to suppliers to lock in fees. Compare different options and quotes and utilise your relationships to find deals. One could negotiate for discounts, packages, referrals, long-term partnerships or services in exchange for sponsorship of the event, offering exposure. Working with further external sponsors is also wise to secure additional funding. Catering is a prime place to reduce expenditure at events. Hosting a breakfast event can be much less of an expense than dinners, and instead of a three course meal, buffets can be a cheaper alternative that also requires less service staff. Or perhaps in reality your event doesn’t need a full meal, with canapés and cocktails sufficient, or for something unique hire food trucks. It is important to check whether your venue requires you to use an in-house or specific caterer, as this could force you to © stock.adobe.com/Syda Productionswww.blmforum.net Business Link 37 CORPORATE HOSPITALITY meet a food and drink minimum exceeding your budget and needs. If this is the case, consider looking for a different venue with an open catering policy to find your own ideal provider. Virtual Depending on the type of event being organised and your objective, you do not always need to gather attendees face-to- face. Jumping in popularity due to the pandemic, significant savings can be made by taking events online, such as an interactive webinar, which can often meet your event goals as well as furthering the event’s reach to a wider audience. Embracing the virtual world also offers a reduction in expenses at physical events. Replacing printed guides, schedules, invites and marketing campaigns with a digital alternative saves on printing, paper, and postage. This comes with the benefit of a reduced carbon footprint too. One might consider an event app to keep attendees informed. This option additionally provides an opportunity to introduce more engaging aspects to your event, with voting polls, Q&A submissions and gamification possible. Event registration tools meanwhile can make savings, on badges and printing costs, while allowing attendees to print badges on arrival at an event means no-shows won’t have badges printed unnecessarily. Using digital signage if available instead of printing signs is also useful to save on printing, production, and shipping. If signage and branding is necessary, however, you don’t have to spend a fortune to make an impact. Keeping materials like banners and signs generic to the business is a helpful way of keeping the culture of your company present and boosting brand awareness while allowing them to be reused at future events to save money on creating new materials. With event expenditures increasing, organisers need to minimise costs to improve ROI. But remember, this shouldn’t hamper the attendee experience that is vital to success. From using digital technology to negotiating with vendors, and thinking outside of the box on venues and dates, savings can be made while maintaining a great event. © stock.adobe.com/SergeyWe take a look at some of the new motors that will be coming to our roads. Summer Drives 38 Business Link www.blmforum.net AUTOLINKMazda2 The ever-popular Mazda2 has received a substantially revised new look with fresh exterior styling and new cabin trim treatment. Across the four newly named trim grades: Centre- Line, Homura, Exclusive-Line and Homura Aka - the 2023 Mazda2 features a new grille, a sleeker bumper design, decorative dash panels and two exterior colours that make their Mazda debut on the supermini: Aero Grey and Air Stream Blue. For the 2023 Mazda2, Mazda’s designers have focused on new design features that give the different models a more distinctive appearance to allow customers the opportunity to reflect their individuality with a wider choice of colour combinations across the four model grades. The Mazda2’s personality has been redefined with Centre-Line and Exclusive- Line focusing on a fun and casual nature, while the Homura and Homura Aka have been designed to give the Mazda2 a sportier look and character. 40 Á Mazda2 www.blmforum.net Business Link 39 AUTOLINKNext >