A Lancashire manufacturer is taking a more strategic approach to digital transformation after sharpening its leadership skills with Made Smarter.

Preston-based Amtrim, which manufactures bespoke marine canopies, covers and upholstery, is among 125 North West manufacturers whose leaders have taken part in the Government-backed Leading Digital Transformation (LDT) programme.

The programme has now supported 145 leaders, giving them practical tools and greater confidence to develop clearer strategies and roadmaps, engage teams and manage change.

Managing Director David Brindley said LDT had helped the business step back from individual technology investments and think more strategically about how digital transformation supports its wider goals.

He said: “One of the biggest things I took away from the programme was that technology has to follow strategy, not the other way round. It's easy to get excited about new equipment, but you need a clear vision of what you're trying to achieve first. The programme gave us the tools to think much more strategically about how digital technology supports our wider business goals, whether that's improving profitability, reducing waste or creating a stronger business for the future.”

Amtrim is applying that approach as it looks to better connect existing investments in areas including 3D measuring, CAD design and CNC cutting, while also improving how data and information flow through the business.

David said: “The programme changed my view of digital transformation from being predominantly about production technology to looking at the flow of information through the entire business.”

LDT is a 14-week programme for current and emerging manufacturing leaders, delivered with Manchester Metropolitan University and the University of Salford. It combines face-to-face workshops, online webinars, real-life manufacturing case studies, peer learning and visits to technology demonstrators. Participants apply the learning directly to their own businesses, developing a digital strategy and roadmap.

Ruth Hailwood, Made Smarter’s Lead Organisation and Workforce Development Specialist, said: “What's really exciting is seeing these leaders take what they have learned and put it into practice so quickly. Successful digital transformation requires much more than choosing the right technology. Leaders need to think strategically, understand the problem they are trying to solve, prioritise projects, engage their teams and manage change effectively.

“That is what LDT is designed to develop, giving manufacturing leaders practical tools they can apply immediately and the confidence to make better-informed decisions about where technology can make the biggest difference. With 145 delegates from 125 manufacturers now having completed the programme, we want to encourage more business owners, managers and emerging leaders to develop the skills and confidence to lead their own digital transformation.”

Since its inception in 2019, Made Smarter, delivered in the North West by the Growth Company, has supported more than 2,500 manufacturers across the region through technology advice, digital roadmapping, skills support, internships and match-funded technology grants.