Spending on staff more important than robots to harness new industrial revolution
According to new research released by EEF, the majority of UK manufacturers believe the 4th industrial revolution (4IR) will be a reality by 2025, with more than 80% believing they need to invest in staff skills in order to adopt the new advances in technology.
While connectivity, big data and other rapid advances in technology are driving the 4IR, the majority of manufacturers are prioritising knowledge over software. Lee Hopley, chief economist at EEF, said: “4IR will be crucial for UK manufacturing. Manufacturers are aware that it will be a game changer – not just for investment in technologies, but for the cutting-edge, high-level skills required alongside.
What do you think? Are skills vital to the future of the industry? To read more, head here.. http://ow.ly/XTgQ303uMZZ
Who are the world’s most innovative nations?
Each year, the European Commission runs a range of assessments and studies to measure the effectiveness of R&D funding and the “innovativeness” of countries. Surveys from around the world will also be published this month, revealing which countries top the scoreboard.
From the European standings, Sweden currently tops the table as innovation leader, while Latvia, Malta, Lithuania, the Netherlands and the UK showed the fastest rate of increasing innovation in their economies. The research reveals that to become leading innovators, countries must adopt a balanced system which combines investment, partnerships and education.
To find out where the UK is in the standings, head here.. http://ow.ly/wJZQ303uN4s
John Lewis to champion local suppliers and manufacturers
As part of its new ‘Locally Made’ initiative, the retailer is looking to enhance support of local UK suppliers and manufacturers by bringing locally-designed and made products from across the country to a dedicated area in its shops.
The project will initially begin at shops in Leeds, though products will also be available online to broaden exposure. Anna Rigby, head of buying for Home Accessories and Gifts at John Lewis, says: “We know that our customers are interested in the provenance of products and as a British retailer, we’re proud to support British design and quality by sourcing locally.”
To find out more on their support for UK manufacturing, head here.. http://ow.ly/S12w303uNcl