In a city known for its industrial heritage, Greater Manchester is once again stepping forward – this time as a leader in supply chain-focused manufacturing growth.
At the recent GM Manufacturing Network event, hosted at Endress+Hauser and organised by GM Business Growth Hub, over 40 manufacturers from across the region came together to explore how energy efficiency, collaboration, and the Greater Manchester Investment Zone are shaping the future of industry. Experts from Green Economy and Endress+Hauser shared practical insights on reducing energy costs and improving operational efficiency.
A Strategic Vision for Manufacturing Growth
Part of the Greater Manchester Investment Zone supply chain initiative, the GM Manufacturing Network event creates informal networking opportunities to facilitate business collaborations, allowing the wider Manufacturing communities to connect, engage and integrate into national and international supply chains. Manufacturers are also invited to exhibit at the event to showcase their capabilities, this supports them to meet potential new customers, suppliers and partners.
“The Greater Manchester Investment Zone is designed to help SMEs look at what they do, how they do it, and how they interact with others, so they can scale and attract larger pieces of work in national and international supply chains,” said Chris Manka, Senior Business Advisor – Manufacturing, Supply Chain & International Specialist, GM Business Growth Hub.
By encouraging clusters of expertise and supporting cross-sector partnerships, the Investment Zone is laying the foundation for a more resilient and competitive manufacturing ecosystem.
“This event is a great example of how Greater Manchester is leading the way in sustainable manufacturing,” said Alasdair Dalzel-Job from Green Economy. “By connecting businesses with the right support and each other, we’re helping them build stronger supply chains and a greener future.”
Peer Learning and Practical Insights
Manufacturers attending the event shared how valuable the peer learning and networking opportunities were:
“It’s so important to keep that cluster of businesses talking to each other,” said Tony Wilson, Managing Director, Volz Engineering. “I was really interested in how other businesses have saved money.”
“It’s been really useful to meet companies who are in the same position as us, and we came away with a lot of ideas.” said Hayley Smith, Director at Pallet People.
This reflects a growing appetite amongst manufacturers to network, share knowledge, suppliers, and solutions.
The event concluded with a behind-the-scenes tour of Endress+Hauser’s facility, offering delegates a closer look at the company’s products, energy-saving projects and development.
“This event highlighted the collective ambition across Greater Manchester’s manufacturing sector,” said Zoe Brimelow, Brand Director at Duo UK. "The support from the wider Business Growth Hub – through funding, advice, and expertise – has genuinely accelerated our progress. It’s been a game-changer.”
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