Manufacturing is at a crossroads. While negative headlines often dominate the conversation, there has been a growing sense of confidence emerging within the sector. Menzies and the CICM hosted a roundtable discussion at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, which brought together key individuals in the industry to discuss the challenges and potential solutions shaping the future of manufacturing. Three key themes were discussed: recruitment and retention, supply chain challenges, and the growing threat of fraud. One of the primary concerns addressed in the roundtable was recruitment and the retention of skilled staff. There has been a shortage of skilled workers, which has become increasingly evident as traditional career paths in construction and engineering have become less in demand. Many manufacturers struggle to replace a workforce that is aging, with the retirement of experienced employees leaving a considerable gap in skills. Furthermore, the impact of Brexit has meant that there has been a steady decline in returning European workers, which strengthens the challenges faced with staffing.   Another significant concern was the decline of apprenticeships. Many businesses have chosen to shift towards in-house training rather than relying on external apprenticeship schemes, especially as training facilities in Wales remain few and far between. Some firms are having to send trainees further afield for the required skills development. This, alongside the evolving workplace expectations, has evidently reshaped employment trends. Employees are continuously prioritising work-life balance over overtime and financial incentives, which makes retention more challenging as a result. In South Wales, a lack of clear career pathways for young people has led to lower retention rates among the 16-24 age group. Roundtable participants agreed that to attract and retain talent, manufacturers must strengthen their employer branding by offering flexible work policies, fostering social engagement initiatives, and providing clear career progression opportunities.   Supply chain difficulties were another key area of discussion during the roundtable. The post-Brexit landscape has increased reliance on European suppliers, leading to greater instability and uncertainty. Many businesses have also become increasingly more dependent on China, which has therefore, contributed to an increase in carbon footprints and disruptions caused by major holidays and logistical delays. Roundtable attendees emphasised the further supply chain risks posed by public sector contracts, which require businesses to conduct careful due diligence in order to minimise potential issues. In response to these uncertainties, manufacturers are needing to reassess their supply chain strategies to build greater resilience and adaptability.   Fraud and cybersecurity emerged as ongoing threats within the manufacturing industry, as highlighted by many roundtable participants. Businesses are facing an increased rate of getting targeted by highly developed phishing scams and AI-driven cyberattacks, which inevitably leads to financial losses and operational disruptions.  Despite the growing risks, cybersecurity awareness remains low in countless organisations, making them open to attacks. Roundtable attendees agreed that to combat these threats, manufacturing firms must apply tight security measures, educate their employees on potential risks, and invest in advanced cybersecurity technologies to safeguard sensitive information.   Despite the challenges and threats discussed, there has been remarkable developments within the manufacturing sector. Young talent is entering the workforce, bringing fresh and innovative ideas as well as enthusiasm. Countless businesses have successfully adapted to Brexit-related disruptions, demonstrating flexibility and resilience in their supply chain strategies. Companies that survived the aftermath of COVID-19 have come out stronger, with more streamlined operations and improved efficiencies. Collaboration across industries have also expanded, fostering knowledge-sharing and driving innovation.   The Welsh manufacturing sector continues to operate well in exports, specifically in high-tech industries. Moreover, emerging investments in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives, as well as advancements in science and technology, are leading the way for astounding transformation. These developments indicate a promising future for manufacturing, as long as businesses continue to embrace innovation and adaptability.   Looking forward, the manufacturing sector must stay proactive in addressing its challenges while capitalising on opportunities for growth. By embracing technological advancements, redefining recruitment strategies, and fostering a culture of resilience, businesses can navigate the developing landscape successfully. The discussions at the CICM roundtable highlighted the importance of collaboration, forward-thinking strategies, and a commitment to continuous improvement. With the correct approach, the manufacturing industry can thrive in an ever-changing economic environment.

Email remains a primary communication tool for 81% of people, making it a prime target for cybercriminals who send 3.4 billion phishing emails daily. In 2024, phishing attacks increased by 28%, driven by AI, leading to data loss, financial damage, and reputational harm. Here are five tips to enhance email security, including using AI, DMARC, and DKIM.

Purchasing property at auction can be an exciting and potentially cost-effective way to invest in real estate. However, it also carries its own set of risks and complexities. Whether you're a seasoned investor or a first-time buyer, it's essential to be fully prepared—especially when it comes to securing auction property finance.

Half of all UK companies have suffered a cyber-attack in the last 12 months, and it can just take 37 seconds for a criminal to take over your systems.

A recent survey from Helen Tuddenham Consulting, “Nurturing And Retaining Talent”, discovered that only half of organisations had tried Executive Coaching as a means to solving their leadership and business challenges. The reasons given for not investing in executive coaching varied but included cost, expected return on investment, and whether it would work in smaller organisations. Other barriers preventing organisations from proceeding include confusing and off-putting terminology, difficulties finding high-quality coaches, and a lack of accreditation and regulation in the sector. A small minority in our survey also had experience with clients not engaging in the coaching process. Yet, for those who take the plunge, the results can be transformative. Every organisation that had used executive coaching in the survey had seen benefits, and nearly half had seen direct increases in profitability as a result. This is backed up by other research showing that when done well, executive coaching can produce tangible benefits to a company's bottom line. MetrixGlobal found that this return could be up to 529% in some circumstances. To support organisations wanting to take the plunge and reap the benefits for themselves, we have published a guide that addresses some concerns and myths, explains the factors you need to consider, and takes you through a step-by-step process for making the most of your investment. Although the original research was with professional services firms, “Transforming Leaders: A Practical Guide to Coaching for Organisations” is designed for businesses of any size or industry that have yet to embark on their coaching journey. You can download a copy of the report here or to find out more, get in touch using the details below.   helen@helentuddenhamconsulting.com www.helentuddenhamconsulting.com/for-organisations

Spring Statement March 2025 Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, held the Spring Statement on Wednesday 26 March 2025. In the run up to the event, the Chancellor stated that she ‘remains committed to one major fiscal event a year to give families and businesses stability and certainty on upcoming tax and spending changes and, in turn, to support the government’s growth mission’. The Chancellor did meet her commitment that there would be no major tax announcements, but tax is only one side of the equation. The other is spending, and the Spring Statement confirmed a number of the measures recently announced, namely: • Cuts to the welfare state • Cuts to the civil service • Increase in defence spending There were also announcements about the rollout of the Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax project which are covered later in this document.

Thinking of buying a commercial property? This guide breaks down commercial mortgages in a friendly, easy-to-understand way. We'll cover what they are, how to qualify, and key things to consider, helping you navigate the process with confidence.

Manufacturers need to embrace artificial intelligence (AI) or risk missing out on transformational business benefits, members of South East-based METALL (The Manufacturing Engineering and Technology Alliance) heard at their latest meeting.

Combining data with AI empowers SMBs to unlock valuable insights, automate tasks, and personalise customer experiences. This dynamic duo provides a competitive edge, enhances productivity, and drives better decision-making, revolutionising the way SMBs operate.

Are you eager to enhance your digital marketing skills or dive deep into the world of Adobe's creative software? Look no further than the bootcamps offered by Creative Process Digital. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur seeking to grow your business or an aspiring professional eager to land a job in the competitive digital world or an employer who can see the benefit of giving their employees some extra training to develop their skills, our bootcamps have got you covered.

Commonhold was introduced as a fairer alternative to leasehold, giving homeowners full ownership of their property and shared spaces. However, despite its advantages, mortgage lenders remain reluctant to finance commonhold properties. This article explores the key reasons behind their hesitation, including market uncertainty, financial risks, and legal concerns, and whether future reforms could change the landscape.

Are you eager to enhance your digital marketing skills or dive deep into the world of Adobe's creative software? Look no further than the bootcamps offered by Creative Process Digital. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur seeking to grow your business or an aspiring professional eager to land a job in the competitive digital world or an employer who can see the benefit of giving their employees some extra training to develop their skills, our bootcamps have got you covered.

The Video Skills Bootcamp is a face-to-face training programme designed to give you professional competence in video editing and film production. It uses the latest industry software and equipment.   Training is at the Creative Process video production studio on Kensington Street in the heart of North Laines with our film industry trainers.   Schedule: All sessions are 10:00-17:00, Courses run for 2 days per week for 8 weeks either on Tuesday and Wednesday or Thursday and Friday’   What are Video Skills Bootcamps? Video Skills Bootcamps are training room-based courses that offer the next level up for those who have already completed our Video Accelerator or have more than basic production skills. It will teach you how to take the next step towards a successful video/editing career. Whether you are a YouTuber, Insta-reeler, vlogger, business owner or aspiring filmmaker, you will learn how to make professional videos with this course.   Video Skills Bootcamps at a glance: You will cover everything from coming up with great video ideas, executing them in production and post-production, and distributing them to a wide audience online via smartphone, DSLR, or professional camera. Why Choose Us?   It’s Free: The programme offers £2,500 worth of free training if you are self-employed/freelance or unemployed. SMEs pay a 10% contribution. Large employers pay 30%.   Sign up today  - https://www.freedigitalskills.co.uk/apply-now-video-bootcamp

Ready to stand out from the crowd? The Digital Accelerator is a FREE Digital Skills Diploma (worth £2,600!)

Cybersecurity is quickly becoming one of the top concerns for businesses across the world, and for good reason. The key to protecting your business and reducing the likelihood of a costly attack is understanding and protecting your attack surface.  

If you're looking to integrate sustainable energy solutions into your energy management plan, Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) offer a great opportunity to drive decarbonisation without the need for significant upfront capital investment in infrastructure. However, securing these long-term contracts requires expertise and careful handling.

Managing debt can be a challenge. There’s one simple strategy that can save you thousands of pounds in the long run. This strategy is overpaying your loan. Whether it’s a mortgage, business loan, or property finance, paying more than the minimum required each month can be advantageous. You can reduce the interest paid over time. It also helps in clearing the debt faster.

A new year in coworking is upon us, bringing many exciting developments to the sector. technology within, as part if its coworking outlook for 2025, highlights key industry trends, from growing demand for hospitality-infused workspaces to the ongoing role of AI and connectivity in shaping the future of work.

If your business employs more than 10 full-time equivalent employees, your business will need to get ready to conform to the new UK business waste and recycling regulations which come into effect on the 31st March 2025. The new regulations, also called the ‘Simpler Recycling Scheme’ are designed to improve recycling rates by businesses across the country. Each local authority will need to provide improved collection services and as a business you need to get ready to have the sorting systems in place. If you’re thinking ‘Great, more bins!’, then you’re not alone but the good news is that the amended legislation has actually reduced the number of bins required in the initial proposals. However, what this probably means is 1) you need to review your recycling procedures and number of bins and 2) have somewhere to put them! This blog outlines the timeline and key responsibilities for businesses, as well as some ideas of how to sort and manage your recycling.

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