MP encourages local businesses to demonstrate manufacturing excellence

12.00.00am GMT Wed 14th Jan 2004

Local MP John Thurso is urging manufacturers in Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross to test their competitiveness in the market place by entering the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) Manufacturing Excellence (MX2004) Awards.

Now in its 25th year, the Manufacturing Excellence Awards examines UK manufacturers' competitiveness in best practice and innovation across six industrial disciplines: customer focus, product innovation, process innovation, resource efficiency, people effectiveness and IT.

All manufacturing companies based in the UK are eligible to enter, no matter what size, and there is a special award to encourage SME's to grow and prosper. Furthermore, to ensure UK manufacturing remains a world leader in quality and service, the IMechE is offering all companies that apply, a free confidential benchmarking report to ensure they are performing to the acknowledged standards of best practice.

Entrance to MX2004 is free and supported by a prestigious group of organisations including the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the EEF, the Manufacturing Advisory Service and the Manufacturing Foundation.

John Thurso said:

"The Far North has a long history of manufacturing excellence of which we can be proud. Manufacturing is a major employer and of critical importance to the economy, accounting for 20% GDP. Awards such as these recognises excellence in manufacturing and I encourage all those involved in this sector to enter".

To enter the MX2004 Awards, or to apply for the free benchmark service, please contact Stephanie Levin, Project Executive,at the IMechE on tel: 0207-304-6815 or email mx2004@imeche.org.uk.