In the last six years, we have seen the beginnings of a transformation in manufacturing in the South West with many businesses making fundamental changes to their economic viability by becoming leaner and more agile in their marketplace.

As an indicator, we can look at the results of 69 businesses that have taken part in the MAS Strategic Management Programme. In a three year period, a group of 69 companies saw a growth in sales of 14 per cent and a corresponding leap in profits of 71 per cent. So, what else can we do? As a starter, a sharp fall in the pound is improving the competition of Britain's exports.

In the first quarter of 2008, exports were up 10 per cent on the same period last year. With export markets opening up, there are great opportunities to look for other sources of revenue overseas. In looking to tendering, the Olympics is a golden opportunity. To date, 70 per cent of the 2012 London Games contracts on offer from the Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) have been won by small businesses. In total, there are around £2billion worth of supply contracts across the South West.

In addition, the MoD, NHS and local councils also have numerous opportunities with contracts ranging from £10k to £1 million for those companies that register and can deliver winning tendering strategies. Any change, it seems, presents opportunities as well as challenges. We do need to address ways to make our businesses leaner, more productive and resource efficient but we also need to take stock of new business strategies and re-plan growth into untapped markets.

We're here to help. Whether it's our 'Tendering to Win' events or identifying and planning avenues for growth through our Strategic Management Programme, our aim is to help manufacturers not just to survive but the thrive in the months ahead.