A government-funded programme that helps businesses across the North West, South East and Yorkshire is aiding breweries and other manufacturers to invest in digital technologies to boost productivity, create new jobs and strengthen competitiveness.

Through Made Smarter Firms producing beer, premium chocolate, bakery products, meat products, and food packaging are among those embracing automation, advanced production equipment and connected digital systems after grants from Government-backed programmes in the North West, South East and Yorkshire

In greater manchester craft brewery Brightside Brewing has installed precision monitoring technology to improve the quality and consistency of its expanding range of premium gluten-free lagers.

Director Carley Friedrich said: “It’s a market-leading piece of technology and a significant commitment for a business of our size. Now it’s installed and already delivering results, we’re in a much stronger position to grow our keg offering, reach new customers and continue building our reputation for quality beer.”

Food packaging manufacturers are also investing in smarter production. Greater Manchester-based Micro Can has brought laser cutting and bending capabilities in-house, dramatically increasing manufacturing flexibility while generating more than £1.4 million in additional turnover.

Managing Director Warren Stanley said: “Bringing cutting and bending capabilities in-house has revolutionised Micro Can. We can now develop, test and refine ideas at a pace that was unimaginable before.”

As well as grant funding, Made Smarter offers SME manufacturers a range of support, including digital transformation workshops, impartial technology advice, leadership and skills training, and a digital internship programme.