We may also see Mr Brown take the opportunity to purge old ideas or policies that are no longer effective.  

Already in the pipeline is the simplification of the business support that is available to small and medium-sized companies.

In looking to the manufacturing sector, the South West MAS has been providing, and will continue in conjunction with Business Link to provide, relevant and practical support for manufacturers in the region.  

So, in light of this available support, the political shake-up and evaluations it might also be timely for manufacturers to follow suit and re-examine their own direction.  

This is captured by the first lean principle in John Bicheno's 'The Lean Toolbox'. Companies are encouraged to identify what their customers really value and to consequently shape their business around this. This might involve shelving products, brands or marketing that have been a success in the past but are no longer relevant or attuned to your market. It may also mean bringing old partnerships to an end and building new teams which will ensure you maximise on existing and new opportunities for growth.  

The MAS in the South West is available to help with this journey of self-examination.