Over 200 manufacturers from across the region gathered in South Yorkshire (Thursday 14 October) for the annual Manufacturing Conference organised by The Manufacturing Advisory Service Yorkshire & Humber (MAS Y&H).

The theme of this year's conference (which was held at the Advanced Manufacturing Park Technology Centre, Rotherham) was 'A New Era for Manufacturing'. The event was specifically designed to provide delegates with key information and advice needed to move their businesses forward including how to develop strategic direction, gear up for the future with innovative and advanced manufacturing techniques and make the most of 'low carbon' opportunities.

Industry experts who addressed the audience included Cheryl Kindness, design & development director of multi-award winning Camira Fabrics (Mirfield). Camira manufacture 8 million metres of fabric every year and export to over 70 countries.  Cheryl shared some of the secrets of the company's success including how it had successfully innovated its way ahead of its competitors with the clever use of sustainable design and manufacture.

Peter Hopton, chief executive of the Sheffield-based energy efficient computer manufacturer Very PC talked about the importance of capitalising on the 'green' revolution and gave delegates a valuable insight into making the most of the funding available to them.

Steve Watson, managing director of Global Aftermarket Services at Huddersfield-based David Brown Gears (which celebrated its150th anniversary this year) led delegates through the journey of moving a traditional business into renewables, whilst Nick Hussey of Manufacturing Insight stressed the importance of improving the image of manufacturing amongst young people.

A range of MAS supported businesses also hosted pracitcal workshops at the conference - Carlsberg UK covered 'developing your team' whilst a team from Grimsby-based Clean Green Pallet company shared their positive experiences of putting innovation into practice. Hull-based wheelchair manufacturer, Cyclone Mobility put forward the case for developing a structured plan and direction for business based on its own experiences.

Robin Watson, regional director of MAS chaired the conference and said: "Due to the current position on future funding of MAS, we are entering a period of great uncertainty. However, we remain committed to do everything we can to continue to support the region's manufacturing community; the success of which we believe is firmly linked with the UK's route to future prosperity."

For further information about MAS events please visit www.mas-yh.co.uk