The North East Automotive Alliance (NEAA) enjoyed double celebrations at this year’s Expo, commemorating its ten-year anniversary and revelling in the recently announced £10m investment in to the next generation of skilled workers in the automotive sector.
North East Mayor, Kim McGuiness, addressed a record breaking 820 delegates, on the importance of the investment in MADE North East (Manufacturing, Automation, Digitalisation, Electrification) and, importantly, said further funds would be made available, if required.
MADE NE is a collaborative effort led by Nissan, along with key partners, to establish world-class training facilities across two locations within the International Advanced Manufacturing Strategic Site (IAMSS) in Sunderland. The landmark investment is set to forge a new generation of skilled, local workers, specialising in electric vehicle (EV) and battery technology, crucial for the industry’s future.
The NEAA Expo is recognised as the most influential event of its kind within the UK automotive supply chain sector. This year, it featured more than 110 exhibitors, providing an unparalleled platform for industry professionals to showcase innovations, exchange ideas and discuss the evolving landscape of the automotive sector.
Paul Butler, chief executive of the NEAA, said: “This year’s Expo not only commemorates a decade of achievement for the NEAA but also represents an exciting time of opportunity for the future of the automotive sector in the North East.
“64% of our members have planned significant investment over the next two years but skills shortages remained a top concern for a number of years. The announcement from Mayor Kim McGuinness, of £10 million investment in the MADE NE initiative, could not have arrived at a better time to quell these concerns and this was evidenced by the positively electric atmosphere at the Expo. It is clear to all, including government, that the North East Automotive industry is thriving and this investment will only help to accelerate growth further.
“As the automotive industry continues to evolve, the NEAA remains committed to supporting its members and the wider community, through initiatives focused on skills development, innovation and sustainability. The Expo serves as a cornerstone for these efforts, uniting businesses, educational institutions, and government bodies to foster collaboration and growth.
“The NEAA looks forward to future Expos and continued partnership with stakeholders committed to championing the North East as a leader in automotive excellence.”
North East Mayor, Kim McGuinness, said: “The car industry is synonymous with the North East and represents what our region is about, with a proud manufacturing heritage, a talented and productive workforce, and inventive cutting-edge businesses creating the vehicles and technologies of the future.
“Almost two-thirds of automotive businesses in the North East plan to increase investment over the next two years. That’s fantastic news and a massive vote of confidence in our region. As Mayor, I am determined to help our sector thrive and go even further.
“That’s why I’ve already approved £10m investment in MADE North East to train the next generation of skilled workers in electric vehicles, battery technology and advanced manufacturing. I will go further to ensure the industry has the skills it needs to grow – so we can unlock even more jobs, training and opportunity for the North East.”
The Expo was supported by headline sponsor, Sunderland City Council, Partner Sponsors, Invest South Tyneside, TR Fastenings and Hitachi Digital Solutions, lunch sponsor, Masfix, stage sponsor UK Independent Medical, skill lounge sponsor, Education Partnership North East, breakfast sponsor, Jabil, refreshments sponsor, SOS Industrial, registration sponsor, CMYK | Business Technology, meet the buyer sponsor, Prospot, technology showcase sponsor, Manosun and expo guide sponsor, Horizon Works.
A 10 Year anniversary drinks reception was sponsored by SMS Smart Manufacturing Solutions and SMS Tech.