(Commonwealth)_ The announcement of this forward-looking initiative took place during the annual chairman’s lunch hosted by the trade association in London on December 1st. This strategic move follows the earlier release of a Manifesto for Automation, outlining the organization’s objectives and dedication to catalyzing change for enhanced productivity across UK PLC. The manifesto specifically highlighted the pivotal role of automation in ensuring sustained success within the UK manufacturing sectors. Established in 1987, the PPMA (Process, Packaging, and Machinery Association) was later joined by BARA (British Automation and Robot Association) and the UK Industrial Vision Association (UKIVA) in 2009, significantly diversifying the representation of automation equipment and services within the association. As the association evolves and matures, its leadership believes it’s an opportune moment to expand the range of services offered to its members and their clientele. Recognized as the foremost trade association for automation suppliers and end users encompassing processing, packaging, robotics, and machine vision, it aims to propel significant advancements in this vital segment of the UK economy. While the PPMA, BARA, and UKIVA have individually achieved substantial success, moving ahead, they will operate collectively under the unified umbrella of AutomateUK.
This consolidation aims to leverage the strengths and expertise of the three highly accomplished associations, presenting a more unified and comprehensive front to better serve their members and stakeholders. Through this strategic amalgamation, AutomateUK aspires to drive greater innovation, collaboration, and progress in automation technologies across various industries, nurturing growth and advancement within the UK’s economic landscape. The rebranding of AutomateUK signifies more than a superficial change; it embodies a profound evolution in how the amalgamated trade associations will shape the manufacturing domain. Peter Williamson, CEO of AutomateUK, emphasizes this transformation as a pivotal shift in positively influencing the manufacturing landscape. The focus lies in advancing industry progress, nurturing member growth, and aiding users in making informed technology choices. This revitalized entity is poised to lead by driving the adoption of automation technologies, addressing skill shortages by identifying talent and upskilling existing employees, supporting the expansion of member companies, and empowering both members and end users to make informed technological decisions in an increasingly competitive market.
Williamson outlines AutomateUK’s proactive involvement in addressing prevalent challenges across manufacturing, notably the workforce crisis encompassing skills shortages and recruitment obstacles. The association aims to empower small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by offering coherent scaling strategies while dispelling the misconception surrounding job displacement by robots.
To combat these challenges, AutomateUK plans to provide comprehensive practical support across manufacturing’s critical junctures. This includes grants aimed at alleviating skill shortages, promoting career advancement through the charitable arm PPMA BEST, and furnishing technical expertise and assistance. Central to this support framework is the ongoing recruitment of a chief technical officer who will steer discussions on opportunities, regulations, skills, and other pertinent facets. Moreover, AutomateUK will sustain its successful array of training programs, both in-house and online, bolster export support, uphold its esteemed end-user magazine Machinery Update, and continue organizing renowned events such as the PPMA Show, Machine Vision Conference, and Automation UK. These initiatives collectively underpin the association’s commitment to proactively support and enhance the manufacturing landscape while addressing crucial industry challenges. New for the organization is the aim to become a recognized lobbying organization to put forward key industry issues to the government and to represent its member’s best interests. “There is a clear role for government to play in the drive to a more automated manufacturing sector in the UK,” says Williamson. “We estimate that our members represent a £7 bn turnover, which is why our sector should be heard in this critical area.”
