Six manufacturers across Surrey, Kent and Sussex are amongst the first to join Made Smarter, the government-backed initiative helping SMEs adopt new digital technologies to drive growth.
Launched in April, the £1.55m programme has already registered more than 300 businesses. 75 have completed or scheduled a Digital Transformation Workshop, with many now pursuing projects ranging from robotics and automation to ERP upgrades, AI and digital twins.
Early adopters include Cocoba Chocolate and Art4site in Kent, Lanoguard, Nordell and SI Protech in Sussex and Cambertronics in Surrey, which are all using Made Smarter support to modernise operations and scale.
Cocoba Chocolate, based in Strood, makes handcrafted chocolate products for its own brand and private label, supplying major retailers.
Founder Darren Litton said: “Made Smarter has helped us develop a clear roadmap for change, including new systems and automation, and skills and leadership development, creating a balanced plan for growth, efficiency and culture.”
Art4site, based in Wye, is a fine art printing studio producing high-quality giclée prints for artists, illustrators, photographers and publishers nationwide.
Founder Michael Setek said: “Made Smarter helped us clarify where digital upgrades would have the most impact and gave us the direction and confidence to start making improvements step by step.”
Cambertronics, based in Cranleigh, Surrey, is a designer and manufacturer of high-tech electronic assemblies for sectors including automotive, marine, agritech and industrial electronics.
Business development manager Jasper Whitefield said: “Made Smarter has helped us identify the right areas to prioritise, including automated barcoding systems, ERP integration, leadership training and staff development.
“We now have a clear plan and are already looking at the best technology and support available to take the next step.”
Made Smarter South East offers expert advice, leadership and skills training, student placements and match-funded technology grants of up to £20,000 to help SMEs improve productivity, competitiveness and sustainability. It is delivered by Surrey County Council in partnership with 11 local authorities and Local Enterprise Partnerships.
Bryan Vint, programme manager for Made Smarter South East, explained: “It is hugely encouraging to see so many manufacturers beginning their transformation so soon after launch.
“Every SME has the potential to benefit, whether they make furniture, electronics, food or precision components. Digital adoption will mean higher productivity, stronger growth, new jobs and more sustainable operations across the region.”
To encourage more SMEs to take the first step, Made Smarter South East will host a free webinar on National Manufacturing Day on Thursday 25 September (12.30–1.15pm). The session will showcase how the programme works and the benefits available, from leadership training to match-funded technology grants of up to £20,000.
