News October/November 2024 www.pwemag.co.uk Plant & Works Engineering | 07 Sir Chris Bryant MP, Minister of State at the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, recently visited the new Digital Catapult 5G Immersive Lab in Newcastle, exploring the facility that will enable companies in the North East to scale faster. The state-of-the-art innovation lab, based in Newcastle’s Eldon Square, will help SMEs to de-risk the adoption of 5G and immersive technologies, accelerating the practical application of deep tech across key industries. The facility will encourage SMEs to work alongside large businesses, developing proofs of concept that can solve complex business challenges. Digital Catapult is encouraging businesses in the North East from traditional industries including retail, agriculture and manufacturing, to engage with the lab, providing them with pioneering new technologies, enhanced 5G capabilities from Vodafone 5GSA, and access to expertise from Digital Catapult’s team. During the visit, the Minister explored the work of leading regional companies that are developing transformative solutions across consumer and training experiences. A futuristic augmented reality (AR) showcase, presented by local tech company Aircards, allowed the Minister to interact with the latest in ‘smart mirror’ technologies. The Minister also experienced a virtual hazard-perception training exercise created by fellow North East innovator Luminous XR, which has presented to several participants on Digital Catapult’s programmes. With a view to boosting digital skills, productivity and innovation across the North East region, Sir Chris Bryant’s visit follows the Labour Party Conference, where the Minister made clear the ambition to improve connectivity across the country. Digital Catapult’s 5G Immersive Lab opened by UK Tech Minister New five strategies guide to enhancing MRO efficiency ERIKS, a leading specialised industrial service provider, has released a new guide designed to help manufacturers streamline their MRO operations. The guide, called 5 ways to enhance your Maintenance, Repair and Operations (MRO) supply chain, offers practical strategies to improve procurement, storeroom discipline, data management, and operational efficiency in the face of evolving industrial challenges. In light of recent disruptions, such as Brexit, COVID-19, and global geopolitical tensions, the guide addresses the critical need for resilient and responsive MRO practices. By adopting the five strategies businesses can better navigate these complexities, ensuring they remain competitive and operationally efficient. Commenting on the launch, Nathan Cutler, Chief Business Development Officer, ERIKS Industrial Services said, “In today’s rapidly changing industrial environment, efficient MRO management is more important than ever. Our new guide provides simple, actionable insights that can significantly enhance the resilience and effectiveness of MRO operations, helping businesses to optimise their processes and reduce downtime.” The new guide addresses five critical areas. It begins by emphasising the importance of prioritising critical components, ensuring that businesses can maintain operational continuity even in the most resourceconstrained environments. Another key focus of the guide is data management. ERIKS highlights the need for streamlined and accurate data to support decisionmaking processes within MRO operations. Proper data management not only reduces the risk of stockouts but also enhances overall operational efficiency by providing a clear view of inventory levels and needs. Managing obsolescence is also covered, with proactive strategies to identify and mitigate the risks associated with outdated or soon-to-be-unavailable components. The guide suggests leveraging predictive analytics and regular reviews to ensure that businesses are not caught off guard by unexpected shortages. ERIKS also explores innovative procurement models that address the inefficiencies often found in traditional MRO purchasing processes. By adopting more agile procurement strategies, businesses can reduce unnecessary spending and better manage their inventory levels. Finally, the guide underscores the importance of building strong relationships with MRO supply chain experts, emphasising the value of suppliers who can act as strategic partners to businesses and contribute to their continuous improvement efforts. By drawing on extensive technical knowledge and industry expertise, such suppliers can support manufacturers in refining their maintenance operations, improving efficiency, and addressing the evolving challenges of modern industrial environments.
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