As we enter 2025, the UK industrial automation supply sector – including Gambica members with products ranging from motors, variable-speed drives and controlgear, to switchgear and terminals – stands at a pivotal juncture. To achieve maximum efficiency and profitability, the industry must embrace a multifaceted approach that integrates advanced technologies, sustainable practices and strategic planning. Adopting Industry 4.0 technologies is no longer a luxury, but a necessity. Artificial intelligence and machine learning are revolutionising manufacturing processes by enabling predictive maintenance, optimising production schedules, and enhancing quality control. By leveraging these technologies, manufacturers can cut downtime, reduce waste, and improve overall productivity. By the end of 2025, I hope not to be having these conversations any more, but rather in-depth discussions on how the use of these products has been a great success for UK industry. Digital twins and augmented reality are also transforming the manufacturing landscape. Digital twins allow manufacturers to create virtual replicas of physical assets, enabling real-time monitoring and simulation of production processes. Augmented reality, on the other hand, enhances worker training and maintenance by providing interactive, on-thejob guidance. We are now living in an era where sustainability is no longer just a buzzword; it is a critical component of modern manufacturing. Industry must focus on reducing its carbon footprint by adopting cleaner energy sources and energy-efficient technologies. Implementing circular economy principles, such as recycling and the re-use of materials, can reduce waste and resource consumption significantly. Moreover, manufacturers need to invest in sustainable materials and eco-friendly production methods. This not only helps to reduce environmental impacts, but also enhances brand reputation and meets the growing demand for green products, from both consumers and corporate buyers. Another idea that we discuss in Gambica meetings is the aim to build resilient supply chains by adopting decentralised or dispersed manufacturing models. This approach involves setting up micro-factories that can be quickly reconfigured to respond to market changes and disruptions. The success of any manufacturing operation hinges on its workforce. Investing in employee training and development is crucial to maintaining a skilled and motivated workforce. Technologies such as exoskeletons and semi-autonomous cobots can augment human capabilities, making workers more productive, and reducing the risk of injuries. Another critical factor is the need to invest in younger generations. Gambica has, for a while, had a Young Council – soon to be remarketed with a new name and logo to ensure that our member companies are paying close attention to their future workforce, but also providing those individuals with an opportunity to learn and grow in areas they may not previously have been involved with. Watch this space for more information on the revised Gambica young council. Furthermore, collaboration between manufacturers, technology providers and research institutions is essential for driving innovation. By working together, these stakeholders can develop new solutions, share best practices, and create a more competitive and sustainable manufacturing ecosystem. This couples with our idea as a trade association – at our events, members often help each other understand the best practices going forward. As the UK manufacturing looks ahead to 2025, the focus must be on embracing advanced technologies, prioritising sustainability, and adopting strategic planning and resilience measures. By doing so, manufacturers can not only achieve maximum efficiency and profitability but also contribute to a more sustainable and prosperous future. n * Gambica is the trade association for the automation, control, instrumentation and laboratory technology sectors in the UK. You can get in touch with Nikesh Mistry on 020 7642 8094 or nikesh.mistry@gambica.org.uk, or via the Gambica Web site: www.gambica.org.uk Industry stands at a pivotal juncture At the start of a new year, it is time to take stock of the state of manufacturing in the UK. Nikesh Mistry*, Gambica’s sector head for automation, argues that industry needs to take advantage of the latest technologies if it is to operate sustainably, attract new talent and remain globally competitive. Artificial intelligence and machine learning are revolutionising manufacturing processes by enabling predictive maintenance, optimising production schedules, and enhancing quality control January 2025 www.drivesncontrols.com 42
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