
Avanti defies market trends while marking its 45th anniversary. The West Midlands-based manufacturer reports a 10% revenue increase, attributing its success to unique design capabilities and substantial investment in its showrooms. Avanti continues to innovate with a £250,000 investment in its Solihull site, reinforcing its commitment to quality and sustainability.

Amcor has supplied integrated packaging to support Inis haircare expansion. The project delivers bottles and flexible tubes for Fragrances of Ireland’s new shampoo, conditioner and spray range, combining colour consistency, lightweight durability and coordinated production across multiple materials to meet brand and launch requirements.

A swimming facility cut energy use by refurbishing circulation pumps. Applying a ceramic-filled epoxy coating restored hydraulic efficiency, cutting costs and emissions. Three upgraded pumps now save £7,500 annually and reduce CO₂ output by around 12 tonnes, delivering payback without asset replacement.

Bridgnorth Aluminium invests £600,000 in new equipment. The refurbishment of a Schmutz line at the Stourbridge Road facility marks a significant step for Bridgnorth Aluminium. This investment enhances their in-house capabilities for processing thinner gauge materials and positions them for growth in underfloor heating, cooling, and automotive applications.

Digital resilience has become a core operational requirement for modern manufacturers. Al Kingsley MBE, Group CEO of NetSupport, examines how visibility, secure remote access, and proactive monitoring help manufacturers reduce downtime, manage complex IT estates, and keep production moving as digital dependency deepens.

Ultralife Corporation to exhibit innovative subsea batteries in London. At Oceanology International, Ultralife will demonstrate advanced subsea power solutions tailored for the oil and gas industry. The SeaSafe Endurance battery, optimised for pressure vessels, will be featured alongside other cutting-edge technologies, showcasing their increased capacity and versatility for underwater applications.

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.

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.