MAS is a programme of the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform (BERR) and is run in the South East by EEF South, the regional manufacturers’ organisation, with support from SEEDA.

From April next year MAS will offer all small and medium sized manufacturing firms in the South East a greatly extended range of help and advice to improve and encourage manufacturing competitiveness in today’s global market, including: Strategic planning and skills development; Materials, services and technology sourcing; Management and operational advice on all aspects of business; Support to improve the performance and operation of the supply chain; and Support to improve resource efficiency in both energy and waste.

Stephen Timms, Minister of State for Competitiveness within the Department for Business, Enterprise & Regulatory Reform (BERR), said: “MAS offers firms access to industry experts who can provide practical advice on supply chain management and lean manufacturing, areas which are critical to maintaining and building on manufacturing success, through to implementing best practice solutions.”

David Caddle, Principal Manufacturing Specialist for MAS South East, commented: “MAS South East has already generated £123 million of value to manufacturing businesses across the region through direct hands-on support. We look forward to helping many more to become more productive and more profitable as a result of the enhanced service.”