Manufacturers across Greater Manchester face a range of challenges, from improving productivity and increasing sales to developing new revenue streams and building stronger teams. Through tailored support from GM Business Growth Hub's Manufacturing Team, businesses are achieving measurable results that are strengthening performance and driving sustainable growth.
Airmatic Ltd: Building the Foundations for Continuous Improvement
Bury-based Airmatic Ltd, a specialist in industrial ventilation and air movement solutions, has been working with GM Business Growth Hub since 2020 to enhance manufacturing productivity. Through an onsite Swim Lane Process Flow Mapping workshop delivered by Manufacturing Advisor Martin Hyman, the company developed a deeper understanding of its workflows and identified opportunities for improvement.
The introduction of process mapping techniques has enabled the team to reduce inefficiencies, strengthen internal capabilities and establish a solid foundation for Lean Manufacturing. These improvements have also prepared the business for future digital transformation initiatives, including the adoption of ERP and MRP systems.
Own Label: Strengthening Sales Performance
Salon products manufacturer Own Label sought support to refine its sales strategy and accelerate growth. Working closely with GM BGH, the business received tailored coaching focused on outbound sales, KPI management and performance tracking.
Additional guidance on product rationalisation, production planning, brand positioning and influencer marketing helped sharpen its commercial approach. As a result, Own Label streamlined its sales process and achieved a 4% increase in sales over the last quarter, creating a platform for continued expansion within the salon market.
Recycle IT: Combining Commercial Success with Social Value
Bolton-based social enterprise Recycle IT has successfully balanced business growth with its commitment to reducing electronic waste and creating opportunities for young people.
Support from Manufacturing Advisor Tom Haworth focused on costing, commercial decision-making, future planning and Lean methodologies. The organisation also accessed T Level students to help develop skills and increase workforce capacity. The impact has been significant, with Recycle IT reporting a 33% increase in revenue while expanding opportunities for young people, to gain valuable workplace experience, strengthening both its commercial performance and social impact.
RS Knitwear: Improving Productivity and Creating Jobs
Following a management buyout in 2020, Manchester-based RS Knitwear partnered with GM BGH to strengthen its operations and support future growth.
Through one-to-one support and manufacturing workshops, the leadership team developed new skills in production management, factory organisation and people management. Operational improvements included reorganising the factory layout, introducing quality control processes and enhancing production planning. These changes led to increased efficiency and customer service levels, contributing to a 16.5% increase in sales orders and the creation of two new jobs.
Embossing Rollers Ltd: Unlocking New Revenue Opportunities
Rochdale-based Embossing Rollers Ltd partnered with GM Business Growth Hub to explore new ways to grow its business and unlock the value of its specialist expertise. Through fully funded support, the company evaluated opportunities to move beyond one-off product sales and develop a subscription-based service model, creating potential for recurring revenue and stronger customer relationships.
The business also received guidance on responding to international opportunities, including engagement with a major Spanish paper manufacturer. Alongside improvements to its online presence, this has helped Embossing Rollers identify new markets and diversify its revenue streams.
Support from our team built confidence when dealing with large international organisations, recognising that their specialist knowledge gave them a strong position as a valued expert partner. Today, Embossing Rollers Ltd is better placed to pursue global opportunities, strengthen customer relationships and achieve sustainable long-term growth.
Delivering Real Impact for Greater Manchester Manufacturers
These five success stories demonstrate the value of tailored manufacturing support. Whether improving operational efficiency, increasing sales, developing new skills or unlocking fresh market opportunities, GM Business Growth Hub is helping manufacturers across Greater Manchester become more productive, competitive and resilient, delivering tangible results that support long-term business success.
The success of these businesses shows what's possible with the right support. If you're ready to improve performance, unlock growth opportunities and build a more resilient manufacturing business, contact GM Business Growth Hub's Manufacturing Team today. Find out more