Manufacturing NI

Inclusive Employment in Manufacturing: Building a Future That Works for Everyone
2025-11-27 12:00 - 13:00 (Europe/Paris) | Online
Our recent webinar, “Inclusive Employment in Manufacturing” delivered in partnership with NOW Group, explored how diverse employment can transform both lives and workplaces. The session focused on fair access to good jobs in our sector and the positive impact this has on workplace culture, retention, innovation and creativity.

Sean Hanna (NOW Group) outlined how their team supports people with learning difficulties, autism and other neurodivergent conditions into sustainable work, and how they partner with employers to develop roles, recruitment, training and mentoring support. In 2024, NOW Group has helped 400+ people into employment, including 138 into paid roles in manufacturing, with 93% still in work after six months. Their academy and in-work support model is also helping hundreds more build skills and confidence for future roles.

Real experiences shared by Lindsay Colton (Terex) and Genevieve Martin (The JAQ Group) who partner with NOW Group, showed that when we remove barriers and recruit diverse talent, we gain stronger cultures, better retention and more innovative teams – a future that genuinely works for everyone. Key outcomes were clear: diverse and inclusive employment isn’t just good for individuals, it’s good for employers, employees, workplaces and manufacturing as a whole.
Slides are available here: NOW Group – Manufacturing NI webinar
To find out more visit: https://www.nowgroup.org or email: sean.hanna@nowgroup.org

E-DATA Project Co-Design Workshop- North West
2025-11-12 09:30 - 11:00 | Waterfoot Hotel, Caw Roundabout, Clooney Road, Derry, BT47 6TB, United Kingdom
We need your voice! Are rising costs, manual processes, and slow technology holding your business back?
The new E-DATA project is investing in digital support to help SMEs in NI and the border region overcome these challenges, but we’re starting by listening to you.
We are running a series of 90-minute, high-impact workshops across the region to help us:
1. Define Your #1 Digital Hurdle: What’s costing you the most time right now?
2. Prioritise Solutions: Should we focus on cost-saving through data, or market expansion through automation?
3. Build Our Roadmap: Tell us what tools and mentoring you need to compete globally.
This is your chance to directly shape a major new PEACEPLUS-funded support programme.

Start, Grow or Scale your business with support from Go Succeed
2025-10-29 13:00 - 14:00 | Online
In our recent webinar, we explored how Go Succeed, delivered in partnership with all 11 local councils, offers free, tailored support designed specifically for businesses across Northern Ireland.
Panellists Grainne O’Neill (Mid & East Antrim Borough Council), Ruth Robinson (Full Circle Management Solutions), and JB Dobbin (Demanu) shared how manufacturers are using Go Succeed to overcome challenges and unlock new opportunities – whether they’re just starting out, ready to scale, or planning for the future.

Through the programme, manufacturers can access:

Up to 21 hours of one-to-one mentoring with experienced business advisors.

Grants of up to £3,000 to support digital transformation, productivity improvement, or market growth.

Expert guidance on sales, marketing, strategy, financial management, productivity and new product support.

Practical help with product development, process efficiency, and export potential.

One standout success story came from JB Dobbin, who launched his own design and manufacturing business in 2023. With Go Succeed’s mentorship and networking opportunities, he was able to scale quickly and build a strong foundation for growth.

The key message from this session? Take the first step.
Go Succeed’s support is flexible, practical, and focused on real results. Whether you’re refining operations, innovating products, or exploring new markets, this programme can help you build a stronger, more resilient business.

Find out more and register for free support at: go-succeed.com
Slides are available here: Go Succeed master slidedeck

Succession Planning: Preparing Future Manufacturing Leaders
2025-10-15 12:00 - 13:00 | Online
In our recent webinar, Darren McVicker, Managing Director of Vickerstock, shared practical insights on how manufacturers across Northern Ireland can future-proof their business through effective succession planning.
With 30-35% of the manufacturing workforce aged between 50 and 65 and a potential loss of up to 6,000 skilled professionals within the next five years, the sector faces a significant challenge.
To remain competitive, manufacturers need to identify critical roles – the positions that keep operations running – and create a critical skills organisational chart to map expertise and highlight areas requiring development. A proactive approach to knowledge transfer is key. Encouraging employees to understand 20–30% of the responsibilities of the role above them promotes learning, strengthens continuity, and protects valuable expertise. Combined with clear progression pathways, transparent communication, and targeted development plans, this approach helps minimise recruitment costs, boost retention, and build a culture of adaptability and growth.
Practical Steps for Manufacturers –

Conduct a workforce age and skills analysis to anticipate future gaps.
Develop a critical skills organisational chart to prioritise key roles.
Identify potential leaders and provide stretch assignments or project opportunities to build capability.
Invest in internal talent to sustain long-term succession pipelines.
Extend succession planning beyond senior leadership to every level of the organisation.
By investing in people today, manufacturers can secure the talent, skills and leadership needed to thrive tomorrow.

For more information, contact Darren McVicker: Email: d.mcvicker@vickerstock.com Tel: 028 9031 3720
Vickerstock – Succession Planning Presentation[23]

What is AMIC going to do for my business?
2025-10-01 13:00 | Online
The Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (AMIC), a £100 million initiative led by Queen’s University Belfast under the Belfast Region City Deal, is transforming Northern Ireland’s manufacturing landscape. By fostering innovation, collaboration, and skills development, AMIC is helping local businesses tackle both productivity and sustainability challenges.
In our recent webinar, we explored how AMIC supports companies through:

Innovation & Collaboration – Access to cutting-edge technologies including automation, Industry 4.0, smart design, polymers, nanotech & photonics.

Productivity & Sustainability – Practical projects, like with White’s Oats, cutting waste and costs (77 tons less cardboard per year).

Funding & Skills – Support through innovation vouchers, KTPs, training, and apprenticeships to develop future-ready teams.

Flexible Access – Open facilities, consulting, and tailored SME and sector-specific support.

Businesses interested in exploring AMIC’s capabilities or initiating projects are encouraged to contact AMIC directly or visit their website to learn about available programs, funding, and collaborative opportunities.

Sustainable Engineering Wins in Manufacturing
2025-09-23 13:00 - 14:00 | Online
Reliance NI, in partnership with Manufacturing NI, recently hosted “Sustainable Engineering Wins in Manufacturing”, a webinar exploring how energy efficiency delivers both financial and environmental benefits. With motors consuming 46% of global electricity, efficiency is no longer just about cutting costs, it’s a critical strategy for building sustainable and competitive operations. Case studies highlighted payback in as little as 3–6 months, with annual savings of up to £37,000 and reductions of 73 tonnes of CO₂.

Key Takeaways

Smart sustainable technologies that are easy to install typically save at least 10% on energy costs.
Beyond savings, these solutions also enhance maintenance programs and operational performance.
Site application audits are available by Reliance on request.

Some Proven technologies include:

Invertek Optidrive™ variable frequency drives (VFDs)

Optibelt Red Power V Belts

View slides: MANUFACTURING.NI.WEBINAR.23.09.25

As operating costs and carbon pressures grow, energy efficiency is emerging as one of the fastest ways to cut expenses and future-proof operations. To explore how these solutions could benefit your facility, contact Reliance NI:

Pat Walsh, Engineering Manager

E: patwalsh@reliance.ie

W: www.relianceni.uk

The Energy Opportunity - Unlocking Savings, Resilience and Compliance
2025-09-03 13:00 - 14:00 | Online
Webinar slides and recording: “The Energy Opportunity: Unlocking Savings, Resilience and Compliance”
Following our webinar with Carbonfit, many businesses may be considering their next steps, particularly with pass-through cost changes arriving in October and winter pricing kicking in from November.
One practical step discussed is reviewing your energy data to identify areas for improvement. The ability to track and report on actions taken can help demonstrate ROI while supporting compliance and procurement requirements.
To assist with this, Carbonfit is offering a free Energy Health Check for Manufacturing NI members and webinar attendees.
This involves a review of your recent electricity and gas bills to assess:

Whether you’re eligible for any rebates

If you can switch to a lower-cost green tariff

How to reduce your exposure to rising prices

📲 [Click here to upload your bills.

03.09.25 Carbonfit Manufacturing NI Webinar1

Anchor High Summit 2025
2025-05-30 09:00 - 18:00
Over 150 of Northern Ireland’s senior and aspiring manufacturing leaders gathered at the Anchor High Leadership Summit on May 29 at the Hilton Hotel, Belfast, bringing a powerful and purposeful close to Manufacturing Month for 2025.
Delivered by Manufacturing NI, the flagship event convened business leaders, policy makers, and economic experts for a day of insight, inspiration, and industry ambition. From navigating the global economic landscape to exploring emerging models of business ownership, and green supply chains to what the factories of the future might look like, the Summit offered a platform for forward-thinking leadership and bold ideas, featuring an ‘in conversation’ style keynote with former Tánaiste, Simon Coveney.
Stephen Kelly, CEO, Manufacturing NI, said:
“This year’s Manufacturing Month has been a huge success, and we are delighted to conclude it with our best-attended Anchor High Leadership Summit to date.”
“Throughout the month, we have ensured manufacturing’s importance to the Northern Ireland economy is understood, with the sector accounting for 13.4% of total economic output and directly employing over 100,000 people.”

“Manufacturing already boxes above its weight in Northern Ireland, but there’s no reason why it can’t go even further with the right leadership across the sector. We hope Summit attendees will go away from today inspired to embrace new ideas and take on new challenges.”
As the Summit concluded, celebrations carried into the evening with the prestigious Manufacturing NI Hall of Fame Awards Dinner – recognising those whose leadership, contribution, and legacy have shaped Northern Ireland’s manufacturing landscape and enriched local communities.
The 2025 Manufacturing NI Hall of Fame Inductees were:

Patricia Clements, Managing Director, Bradfor
Joanne Liddle, Managing Director, IPC Mouldings
Brian McConville CBE, Chair, MJM Group / Rathbane Group

Stephen Kelly continued:
“The Hall of Fame represents the very best of Northern Ireland manufacturing – leaders who have not only built outstanding businesses, but who have lifted those around them, created opportunities, and contributed meaningfully to their local communities.”
Manufacturing Month 2025 was sponsored by some of Northern Ireland’s leading companies and organisations including the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (AMIC), Barclays, KPMG, Mills Selig, Reliance, Vickerstock, Carbonfit, Go Succeed NI, and Belfast Harbour.

A Look at the Markets with Barclays
2025-05-12 11:00 - 12:00
As part of Manufacturing Month, we take a deep dive into the current economic landscape and its impact on the manufacturing sector. Featuring expert insights from Barclays, this session will explore key market trends, financial outlooks, and the challenges and opportunities shaping the industry today. Whether you’re a business leader, investor, or industry professional, this is a valuable opportunity to gain strategic perspectives and ask your questions live. Thank you to our panellists Gavin Campbell, Jai Pandit and Will Hobbs for their insights.

Preparing for the Windsor Framework: Parcels Movement
2025-04-16 16:30 - 18:00 | Online
This recording features a webinar with HMRC, focused on helping businesses get ready for upcoming changes under the Windsor Framework.

From 1 May 2025, new arrangements will apply to the movement of goods – including parcels – between Great Britain and Northern Ireland. This session is especially relevant for anyone involved in sending or receiving parcels across the Irish Sea.

In this session, we cover:

What the new parcels arrangements are
How to send and receive business-to-business parcels
Sending parcels under the UK Internal Market Scheme (UKIMS)
Sending parcels deemed “at risk”
Duty reimbursement schemes
Q&A with HMRC

Watch now to stay informed and ensure you’re prepared for the changes ahead.

Succsession Planning for Business Owners
2025-04-02 09:00 - 11:00 | Online
Help prepare for the future with Mills Selig’s webinar on Succession Planning for Business Owners.
We were joined by Fiona McFall, Partner & Head of Private Client and Darren Marley, Partner, Corporate for a session, tailored for Manufacturing NI members, that covered the key steps to ensure a seamless transition of leadership or ownership, addressing legal, financial and practical considerations.
Whether you’re planning for retirement, growth, or unexpected changes – this webinar offers expert guidance to protect your business legacy and secure its long-term success. Perfect for business owners and senior leaders looking to safeguard their organisation’s future.
Having the right legal advice at the right time is crucial – Mills Selig’s expert team of Solicitors offer clear, concise and problem solving legal advice
For further information on our expert legal services and how we can help your organisation, click: www.MillsSelig.com/Expertise

Mastering Employee Ownership Trusts Practical Strategies for Business Continuity and Tax Efficiency
2025-03-26 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Gain valuable insights from James Morrison (Partner, Corporate), Scott Kennedy (Partner, Corporate), and Jon Stevens (Partner, Global Head of Tax & Private Capital) from DWF Law as they discuss the benefits, challenges, and practical considerations of Employment Ownership Trusts (EOTs) in business succession planning.
Key takeaways from this session:
✅ What is an EOT? Understanding the structure and key components.
✅ Why consider an EOT? Exploring tax efficiencies and business advantages.
✅ How to implement an EOT? Practical steps for structuring and executing the transition.
✅ Future developments – How EOTs and their qualifying conditions are evolving.
With changes to CGT and BADR, shareholders are increasingly looking at tax-efficient exit strategies. This webinar provides expert guidance to help you assess whether an EOT is the right solution for your business. Watch now to stay informed and ahead in the evolving business landscape.

Legal Essentials with Mills Selig- Navigating Fatal Workplace Accidents Webinar
2025-03-06 14:00 - 15:00 | Online
We were joined by Kirsten Magee, Partner, Litigation at Mills Selig for a webinar, Navigating Fatal Workplace Accidents – Legal Obligations and Best Practices.
Tailored for Manufacturing NI members, this session discussed the complex legal framework surrounding fatal workplace incidents, including compliance requirements, risk management strategies and best practices for responding effectively in the aftermath.
Having the right legal advice at the right time is crucial – Mills Selig’s expert team of Solicitors offer clear, concise and problem solving legal advice
For further information on our expert legal services and how we can help your organisation, click: http://www.millsselig.com/Expertise

The Value of Understanding Claims & Record Keeping
2025-02-26 14:00 - 15:00
Manufacturing NI were joined by DWF Law to look at the importance of Understanding Claims and Record Keeping
This session is aimed to equip you with the knowledge and tools to protect your commercial interests effectively.
Register today for your opportunity to gain a competitive edge in the dynamic field of contract management and claims.
Slides are available to download here- https://www.manufacturingni.org/wp-co…

Directors Duties & Corporate Governance with Mills Selig
2025-02-06 12:00 - 13:00 | Online
Watch the recording of our insightful webinar on Directors’ Duties and Corporate Governance, led by Glenn Watterson, Partner (Corporate) at Mills Selig, and tailored for members of Manufacturing NI. In this session,
Glenn explores:
✅ Key responsibilities of Directors
✅ The importance of corporate governance practices
✅ Practical tips for compliance and effective leadership
The webinar also includes a Q&A session, providing valuable insights for:
🔹 Business Owners
🔹 Directors
🔹 Senior Managers
This recording will equip you with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate corporate responsibility with confidence.
📌 Watch now and enhance your leadership and governance skills!
🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share for more expert insights.

Managing Change in a Challenging Economy
2025-01-30 13:00 - 14:00 | Online
Stephen Kelly from Manufacturing NI was joined by Rachel Richardson, Director (Employment) DWF and Jenny Rankin, Associate, Employment, DWF to look at various components of employment law.
Business continuity is a priority and as the economic climate remains challenging, many more employers are having to make difficult decisions. During this session there are tips providing an outline of the legal parameters when implementing a redundancy procedure, including:
How to identify a redundancy situation
The redundancy process
A closer look at consultation – individual and collective
Other key considerations: Alternative employment and trial periods and redundancy pay
What if an employer gets it wrong?
Alternatives to redundancies: Short time working and lay offs
To discuss this more you can talk to the panelists- Rachel Richardson Rachel.richardson@dwf.law Jenny Rankin Jenny.rankin@dwf.law

The Future of Manufacturing Workshop- with the Future of Work Institute
2023-09-26 12:00 - 14:30
As a leader in the manufacturing sector, you need effective strategies to attract, recruit and engage your frontline workforce. During this workshop, hear from Barry Winkless, Cpl’s Chief Strategy Officer and Head of Future of Work Institute and other experts Elysia Hegarty and John Twomey, Flexsource and Darrach Teague Cpl on how you can deliver innovative workforce programs and create employee-centric cultures to keep your workforce engaged, increase employee retention, and improve business outcomes.
Virtual breakouts will be facilitated to encourage discussion and develop common themes of interest.
During this workshop you will:

Learn how employee expectations have changed for the modern-day workforce and what the future of work needs to look like in your organisation
Get insights from real world case studies on how you can innovate your approach to your workforce development
Discuss key challenges and steps manufacturing leaders need to consider when creating meaningful relationships with their employees
Discuss how technology can contribute toward employee engagement and satisfaction

This will be the first in a series of workshops in partnership with Cpl and The Future of Work and we will use this workshop to engage in interactive discussions to shape the series to ensure that the content best fits the needs of manufacturing organisations.
Speaker
Chief Strategy Officer at Cpl Group & Head of the Future of Work Institute
Barry is an Author, Thinker, Speaker & Doer. As Head of the Future of Work Institute and Chief Strategy Officer at CPL Group, he majors in the disciplines of creative leadership, strategic change and employee experience, with a particular focus on how society is changing and what that means to the world of work. Over the past 25 years, he has worked globally with some of the world’s most respected organisations and has executed significant real-world projects across Ireland, Europe and the USA. Recently named as one of the world’s Top 50 Future of Work influencers by Onalytica, Barry believes that the future of work offers a true collaborative advantage for those who truly embrace it.

UKIMS Seminar
2023-09-21 16:00 - 17:30
The UK Government published further detail on the Windsor Framework on 9 June. The Trader Support Service (TSS) is here to support your members understand the next steps they can take to benefit from the Windsor Framework.
Crucially, registration is now open to the UK Internal Market Scheme (UKIMS)which will allow a broader range of businesses to enjoy the benefits of the Windsor Framework. We encourage your members to sign-up as soon as possible – UKIMS will replace the existing UK Trader Scheme (UKTS) from 30 September 2023.
This will be an interactive session with plenty of opportunity to talk directly to experts from TSS.

Windsor Framework Engagement Webinar
2023-07-06 13:00 - 14:00
We will be joined by colleagues from HMRC and the Treasury to discuss specific custom elements that are specific to the manufacturing sector.
HM Treasury staff will also be explaining various Policy elements of the Framework.
Items for discussion include:
The new Duty Reimbursement Scheme.
The digital Customs Duty Waiver scheme.
TRQs (focus on the overall process of moving to everything being done on a customs declaration)
UKIMS – with a focus on eligibility and who can apply.
Thu, Jul 06, 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM (IST)
We look forward to having you attend the event!

Manufacturing NI- Grow Your Exports Safely
2023-06-27 13:00 - 14:30
For any business entering a new market—especially in a country on the other side of the globe—the risks can be daunting.
Finding new customers, suppliers and partners, understanding the local business culture and trade laws, and working out the logistics of shipping your goods are just a few of the challenges of doing business internationally. And what about foreign exchange fluctuations, understanding payment practices and insurance requirements, geopolitical developments and country risk and accessing the working capital you need to expand into an international market?
The reality is there are many possible country, political and financial risks that you need to familiarize yourself with before entering any market of opportunity. And more importantly, you need to understand how these risks could impact your company’s operations—and plan accordingly.
This webinar will help you to understand those key considerations, help you mitigate these risks and outline the supports available to set your business up for success.
REGISTER HERE

Welcome by Stephen Kelly, Manufacturing NI
Risks of growing business in export markets and how to navigate safely (Atradius/Lockton);

How banks can support with export sales (including UKEF) (Barclays – Mark Henderson);

Invest NI export supports

Panel session chaired by Stephen Kelly, ManufacturingNI

Anchor High Summit 2022
2022-05-12 10:00 - 18:00 | Galgorm Resort & Spa, 136 Fenaghy Rd, Ballymena, BT42 1EA, United Kingdom
We hope that you can join us for Manufacturing NI’s Anchor High Summit on Thursday 12th May 2022 in The Galgorm Resort & Spa. Registration will be from 9am with the event opening at 9.45am and closing @5pm. Lunch will be served as well as light refreshments throughout the day. In the evening from 7pm onwards we will enjoy a 4 course gala dinner and networking with some after dinner special guests.

Department for Communities Programmes and Services Webinar’
2021-06-29 13:00 - 14:00
Blurb TBC

Just Ask- Webinar with Outsource
2021-05-27 14:00 - 15:00
Manufacturing NI are teaming up with Outsource for a webinar on Technology.
Join the team from Outsource Solutions on this informal webinar series to ask questions and find out more about how technology could MAKE LIFE BETTER for you and your business.
Connect with us on 27th May at 1pm to adventure into the unknown and find out why when it comes to Cyber-Crime:

Securing your business is about more than fences and CCTV.
Defence is better than attack when it comes to spend.
Top tips and easy wins to share with your team and protect your bottom line.

Hear from Stephen Crawford and Sandra Quinn as they explore the topic and share recent experiences from NI cyber-crime activities.

Trader Support Service Webinar
2021-02-22 17:00 - 18:30
For the third in our series with Trader Support Service, we’ll be joined by Frank Dunsmuir and Shanker Singham to discuss a number of key enhancements and releases to the TSS and how it will impact your business.
Some of the issues we’ll be approaching are:

Supplementary Declarations
Tariff Options (At Risk/Not at Risk, Rules of Origin, UK Trader Scheme and How to claim a waiver)
Simplified Frontier Declaration for Controlled Goods
Consignment First (Groupage Model)
TSS Transit Service (GB to NI via IE)
Indirect Exports (NI to GB via IE)

Register at the link below
