It's still not too late to enter the prestigious MX Awards 2009
Closing date for entries to manfuacturing ‘Oscars’ extended
Regional manufacturers still have time to enter what have been dubbed the ‘Oscars’ of the manufacturing industry – the Manufacturing Excellence Awards 2009 (MX 2009).
The deadline has been extended for a brief period from the end of January following the Government's silver lining cash boost for the flagging automotive industry. It's hoped that this will act as an incentive for companies which haven't entered MX yet to do so. The BIS Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS) is partnering with the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) for the awards scheme which is free to enter and is the only one of its kind in the UK that allows all entrants to net an extra £20,000 of free business advice.
The advice comes in the form of a benchmarking report from an elite panel of industry experts providing a ‘top tips’ service to firms with invaluable advice on how to improve performance, taking size, industry and resources into consideration.
MAS’ connection with the IMechE and the awards process is key to promoting and protecting the heritage of the UK manufacturing industry and sharing best practice. This is especially relevant during this economic period, when manufacturers are tasked with managing increasing energy costs and a downturn in consumer demand.
MAS East Midlands Centre Director Tony Pritchard said: “We are actively encouraging as many companies within the region to enter these awards. By entering MX, they will receive a benchmarking report compiled by leading manufacturing experts, as well as industry and peer-recognised kudos if they go on to win an award at June’s awards ceremony.
“The glitz and glamour of an awards ceremony is fantastic, but the processes and the self-reflective journey that each company goes through to get to the ‘big night’ is extraordinary and one that will stand them in good stead for the future”.
Small and medium sized firms account for 95% of UK manufacturers and their ability to adapt quickly and smoothly to a fluctuating market, whilst applying lean techniques, engaging in best practice, fostering new technologies and embracing new areas of importance, such as environmental and sustainable issues, is imperative if they are to fight off outside competition and difficult market forces.
IMechE President Bill Banks said: ‘‘MX offers companies the opportunity to increase their knowledge about best practice and I am delighted that the Institution of Mechanical Engineers is working together with the MAS to honour those in the industry who maintain those high standards.
“By partnering once again with MX, MAS is proving its dedication to maintaining best practice in manufacturing. Such a beneficial partnership between MX and MAS will undoubtedly have a positive impact on the industry and in times of an economic downturn, celebrating success is all the more important to businesses.”
Companies can enter via the MX2009 website: www.mxawards.org or by contacting Hazel Morgan on 0207 304 6859 or h_morgan@imeche.org
The closing date for entries has been extended to 27 February, although as it takes a while to complete all the entry questions, entrants are advised to start the application process earlier to ensure their entries are fully complete by the deadline.
