Dairy is embracing digital age in bid to boost productivity

A MANUFACTURING firm has signed up to a business-led programme which aims to use digital technology to boost growth and success.

Lancashire Farm Dairies, in Rochdale, is among 11 businesses in the North West which are set to introduce advanced manufacturing methods.

Bosses say by implementing advances in data analytics, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Augmented Reality (AR), Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), 3D-printing and robotics, firms can enhance their profitability and competitive edge.

The investment is expected to bring ‘extensive benefits’ including improved productivity and revenues, increased export sales, job creation, providing new skills to workforces, integration with supply chains and reduced environmental impact.

The businesses which operate in the food and beverage, engineering, healthcare and agriculture sectors, will benefit from the £20 million Made Smarter Programme, which will help them to grow by adopting new digital technologies.

Lancashire Farm Dairies, based on Moss Bridge Road, produces yoghurts made exclusively with free-range milk.

It is adopting new industrial digital technologies as part of its ambition to double in size over the next five years.

Sarfaraz Akram, Chief Operating Officer, said: “Through the support of Made Smarter we will be able to invest in a new manufacturing process which enhances automation and process control - a key part of the company’s strategic plans.”

Nadhim Zahawi, Minister for Business and Industry said: “The Made Smarter Programme is enabling manufacturers across the North West to access advanced digital technologies with the aim of driving growth and increasing productivity while reducing costs - all part of our ambition to make the UK a global leader in shaping how the modern world does business.

“The 11 new companies announced will not only reap the benefits themselves, the investment will support a multimillion-pound boost to the local economy, keeping the region at the forefront of the latest innovations.

“They join 24 businesses who have received project funding to date, and I would urge others to follow in their footsteps.”