Manufacturing is at the heart of the real economy as EEF celebrate a good year for manufacturing in the North East

EEF’s new CEO, Gilbert Toppin, described how manufacturing is at the heart of the real economy and stated “the troubles of the financial services sector have made people think again about the need to balance our economy”.

Gilbert added, “we have a great story to tell which will help us attract the brightest and best into our sector. One of my priorities at EEF is to do more to improve the image of manufacturing, something which I think we can all play a part in.”

Gilbert also highlighted the importance of manufacturers looking towards the opportunities presented by a low carbon economy, stating that it “is also an opportunity for UK companies to develop the environmental and energy efficient technologies of the future.”

Margaret Fay, Chairman of One North East, also spoke at the dinner and paid tribute to the importance of manufacturing to the region’s economy.

Margaret expressed how the work of the Regional Development Agency becomes ever more important in difficult times, stating: “As economic conditions become more difficult, the work of One North East becomes ever more vital.”

Speaking of the appointment of PA Consulting to run the MAS/NEPA service, Margaret added: “After reviewing its delivery, we felt it was right to align the services to ensure the best possible experience for manufacturers in the region by simplifying, streamlining and improving manufacturing and productivity support across the region.

“I firmly believe the appointment of PA Consulting - which has a proven track record of delivery in this field - will lead to an even stronger manufacturing base here in the North East.”

EEF’s president in the region, Paul Ashley, Managing Director of Clark Door LTD, closed his speech with a call to the various support agencies, One North East, SEMTA, the IET and PA consulting to continue working together for the good of the industry. In the coming years.

Notes to editor

To help support manufacturers develop low carbon products and technology EEF are hosting a ‘climate summit’ on 26 November at St James’ Park. Speakers from EEF, One NorthEast, the Carbon Trust and the Technology Strategy Board will explain how manufacturers can access financial support, guidance and advice to develop and create the technologies of the future. More information can be found at www.eef.org.uk/lowcarbon

Speakers

Paul Ashley, President EEF

Gilbert Toppin, EEF CEO

Margaret Fay, One North East

Martin Smith, Group Head of Technology & Healthcare Group

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For more information contact Jenny Russell 0191 4165656 jrussell@eef.org.uk

EEF has more than 500 member companies in the North East of England and provides the most cost effective legal, employment law, employee relations and HS&E advice and training in the UK.

EEF employs teams of HR and employment specialists and has access to more than 60 lawyers and barristers to help its members understand the issues associated with the ever increasing introduction of legislation and regulation.

Membership of EEF gives immediate unlimited access to the team of specialists - including the largest specialist employment law team in the UK, which provides professional no-nonsense advice and guidance either by telephone or in person.

In addition, EEF represents the interests of its members at UK Government, European and international level, and can provide advice and support on issues and legislation that can affect almost every aspect of business.

Visit www.eef.org.uk/ for further information