The programme, which is funded by Advantage West Midlands, features a hands-on package of support, including Master Class Improvement Workshops that have been designed specifically by manufacturers and the SMMT IF to help firms establish themselves as first choice suppliers to the world’s car producers.

Fresh from a recent visit to the Far East, MPA Project Manager Alan Lord said:

“MPA calls upon the experience of SMMT IF Master Engineers and incorporates seconded engineers specifically trained to deliver the very latest in Lean Manufacturing techniques.

“Having recently observed a sea of manufacturing best practice in Japan, I am confident that participating companies will benefit from the transferring of valuable skills and knowledge from expert engineers.”

He added; “The programme has already received interest from suppliers across the region, all keen to improve their operational efficiency and become more competitive. The sustainable benefit of this approach is that productivity improvements are continuously monitored and reinforced through regular contact.”

Arthur David, SMMT Industry Forum Director, reinforced this message: “The West Midlands has suffered heavy losses in the automotive sector with closure or downscaling by car makers and this has had a knock-on effect throughout the supply chain. I believe we can move forward from adversity to advantage by helping industry in the region address the practical needs of closing the productivity and skills gaps.”

GKN Autostructures Ltd, the Telford-based first tier supplier of components and systems, will be one of several prestigious companies seconding engineers to the programme.

Master Engineers and industry secondees will come together to help companies in the region to successfully implement sustainable quality, cost and delivery improvements throughout the supply chain. A best practice visit to Japan later in the year will also feature as part of the programme, with all participants set to receive NVQ qualifications in Business Improvement Techniques when completed.

GKN Autostructures’ Steve Norgrove was pleased to be taking part: “I am delighted that we will play a major part in a programme designed to help the region’s automotive sector improve its productivity and enhance its global competitiveness.”

Greg Dickinson, Advantage West Midlands Manufacturing Policy Manager, concluded: “The automotive sector, like all manufacturing arenas, has faced and will continue to face major challenges of competitiveness and globalisation.

“The investment Advantage West Midlands is making in the Midlands Productivity Alliance will help to further strengthen the manufacturing base, making it more robust and able to manage threats and exploit opportunities.”