
MGS Technical Plastics completes management buyout led by directors. The Blackburn-based company remains committed to its strategic goals and community involvement, with operations continuing unchanged. The acquisition, effective 22 January 2026, marks a pivotal moment in MGS’s history, as the directors assume full ownership, ensuring continued excellence in manufacturing.

Argos Packaging challenges plastic waste with innovative eco-solutions. The European Union’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation prompts Dutch company Argos Packaging & Protection to launch sustainable alternatives for fresh produce packaging. Their NoW Flowpack paper and new seaweed-based films aim to extend shelf life while meeting 2026 environmental mandates.

Feedlot IQ offers proactive insights for cattle feedlot management. Ever.Ag introduces an AI-driven platform designed to enhance decision-making in cattle feedlots. By detecting changes in intake, health risks, and performance earlier than manual methods, the system aims to improve operational efficiency and animal welfare.

Microchip introduces new microcontrollers for robust 5 V environments. The PIC32CM PL10 family extends the Arm Cortex-M0+ range, offering a bridge for designs transitioning from 8-bit platforms. These microcontrollers target high-volume control applications, promising pin compatibility and enhanced noise immunity for challenging environments.

The UK’s battery sector is advancing with new training. The Birmingham Battery Manufacturing Skills Pathway (B-MSP) has launched a pioneering course at University College Birmingham, providing specialised training for the battery manufacturing industry. This initiative aims to equip the workforce with essential skills to meet the growing demand for electric vehicles.

David Hall appointed Schneider Electric’s UK and Ireland Zone President. Amid rapid energy transformation, Hall will lead strategic growth by deploying electrification and automation solutions. His extensive experience and customer-centric approach ensure a seamless transition, enhancing competitiveness and energy security across sectors.

Eberhard Bau commits to solar diesel from 2027 onwards. The company has signed a long-term agreement with Synhelion to purchase renewable diesel, aiming to cut CO₂ emissions from its construction machinery. This initiative positions Eberhard at the forefront of sustainable practices within the construction sector.

Kynda’s new Jelmstorf site targets large-scale industrial output. The facility converts food-processing byproducts into mycelium-based protein, focusing on circular supply for the beverage and plant-protein sectors. This initiative offers a cost-effective solution for handling high-moisture residues, transforming them into valuable protein ingredients.

ABB unveils Automation Extended to modernise control systems. The program leverages existing platforms to integrate advanced analytics, AI, and IoT seamlessly. It ensures operational continuity while introducing scalable digital capabilities, supporting industries facing market volatility, cybersecurity challenges, and regulatory pressures.