Food and drink manufacturers help Made Smarter hit milestone 400th technology project
Food and drink manufacturers have helped Made Smarter North West reach a major milestone — funding its 400th technology adoption project. The milestone was achieved after two more companies secured support to invest in digital tools and systems: Blazing Limited of Bolton, makers of condiments and food coatings; and The Bubble Panda Limited in Manchester, specialists in bubble tea kits.
Over the last seven years, manufacturers have accessed £7.4 million in matched funding from the government-backed, industry-led programme. This has unlocked £26 million of investment in technologies ranging from sensors and robotics to 3D printing and artificial intelligence.
These investments are forecast to generate more than 1,850 new jobs and up-skill 3,300 existing roles, while delivering a £276 million boost to the regional economy over the next three years.
Commenting on the milestone, Donna Edwards (pictured), Programme Director of Made Smarter, said: “Reaching our 400th funded technology project is a proud milestone for Made Smarter and a powerful demonstration of what manufacturers in the North West can achieve with the right support.
“Over the last seven years, we’ve seen hundreds of SMEs take confident steps towards digitalisation, boosting productivity, creating jobs, and laying the groundwork for long-term growth.
“What excites me most is that this is just the beginning. With every new project, we’re building a stronger, smarter manufacturing base — better equipped to meet the challenges of tomorrow and lead the way in innovation, resilience, and sustainability.”
Blazing Limited, based in Bolton, is a manufacturer of condiments, coating, and mixes for the food retail, catering, and wholesale sectors.
Made Smarter provided a grant of £16,000 towards a project to invest £32,000 into a BP800 Semi-Automatic Sleeve Wrapping Machine and Super Seal 600 Induction Cap Sealer.
The company forecasts that the investment will support a growth strategy which aims to create 18 new jobs and upskill 19 existing roles.
Mohammad Idrees, Managing Director, said: “We truly appreciate the support and opportunities that the Made Smarter programme offers to a business like ours. Its contribution towards our investment in automation is a pivotal step in our growth journey. This technology not only enhances our production capabilities but also enables us to scale efficiently while maintaining the quality and consistency our customers expect.
“As we expand into a larger production facility and grow our team, Made Smarter’s backing helps us accelerate our ambitions. We’re also investing in innovation and digital platforms that will support retail brand launches and global distribution. Automation plays a key role in giving us the flexibility and efficiency we need to deliver on that vision.”
Bubble Panda is a manufacturer of bubble tea kits, based in Manchester.
Scott Harasyn, Founder said: “Our bubble tea kits are a dynamic, ever evolving product which brings fun and flavour to homes across the UK. Thanks to support from Made Smarter, we’re now investing in automation which will unlock the next stage of our growth – enabling us to not only continue innovating with exciting new products, but to scale our operation internationally.”
As well as grant funding, Made Smarter offers SME manufacturers a range of support, including digital transformation workshops, impartial technology advice, leadership and skills training, and a digital internship programme.
To learn more about how Made Smarter can help your business to innovate and grow, visit www.madesmarter.uk
