Cranfield University to host industry leaders, tech providers and SMEs for a hands-on exploration of digital transformation

Made Smarter is to showcase the power of digital transformation at a flagship Factories of the Future conference at Cranfield University next week.

The one-day event will bring together manufacturers, technology experts and academics to illustrate how robotics, automation, data, sensors and virtual reality are reshaping UK industry.
The agenda for Made Smarter: Factories of the Future, taking place on Thursday 20 November 2025, features keynotes, live demonstrations and interactive sessions designed to equip manufacturers with practical insights for their own digital journey.

The event is co-organised by the government-backed Made Smarter Adoption programmes in the East of England and South East, which are working with hundreds of SME manufacturers to improve efficiency and resilience through expert advice, match-funded technology grants, leadership training and funded internships.

"This is about showing manufacturers the art of the possible," said Toby Bennett, Programme Lead for Made Smarter East of England. "Many firms in our region are still at the early stages of digitisation. This event is a chance to see technologies in action, hear real success stories, and understand how Made Smarter can make digital adoption achievable, affordable, and genuinely valuable."

Speakers include Andrea Wilson, Director of Hone-All Precision (Leighton Buzzard) and member of Make UK's Eastern Regional Advisory Board, sharing her perspective on the challenges and opportunities in SME manufacturing.

Dr. Gilbert Tang, Industrial Robotics expert at Cranfield University, will be discussing the future of automation and innovation in industry.

Meanwhile, experts from Cambridge Kinetics (AI and software consultancy) and Oxford Innovation Advice, will be leading a panel on Building a Smarter Factory Today.

The technology exhibition will feature a diverse line-up of companies demonstrating the latest digital tools and systems driving smarter manufacturing. Exhibitors include Jaltek (electronics manufacturer), The Validation Centre (manufacturer of weld monitoring and data logging systems), Total Control Pro (ERP software), igus (motion plastics manufacturer), NewTechm (ultrasonics and robotics manufacturer), Poka-Yoke UK (lean manufacturing and automation consultants), Odoo (ERP systems), Seiki Systems (MES software), XD Innovation (MRP solutions), and Keyence (industrial automation and inspection equipment).

They will be joined by business support organisations and industry networks showcasing the full spectrum of expertise available to manufacturers looking to adopt digital technology.

"Factories of the Future is designed to inspire, inform, and connect manufacturers who want to take the next step in their digital journey," said Bryan Vint, Programme Manager for Made Smarter South East. "Delegates will see what's already being achieved through digital transformation and understand how collaboration between academia, technology providers and SMEs is accelerating progress across the sector."

Andrea Wilson, Director of Hone-All Precision, said: "As manufacturers, we're facing a period of immense change, but also immense opportunity. Digital technology isn't about replacing people, it's about empowering them, giving our teams better tools, better data, and the confidence to make smarter decisions every day. Events like this are so valuable because they turn the theory into something tangible. You can see what's possible, talk to people who've done it, and realise that digital transformation is achievable no matter the size of your business."

Dr Gilbert Tang, Industrial Robotics expert, Cranfield University, said: "Cranfield is proud to host an event that brings together innovators, manufacturers, and technology providers to explore the future of industry. Our university is dedicated to developing breakthrough technologies and applying them in partnership with business, ensuring that innovation translates into real-world impact. By working alongside programmes like Made Smarter, we can help manufacturers of all sizes harness automation, robotics, and digital systems to improve productivity, sustainability, and competitiveness."

Following successful pilot years, Made Smarter East of England and Made Smarter South East are now preparing for year two of delivery. The UK Government has confirmed its continued commitment to the Made Smarter Adoption programme in England, ensuring more manufacturers can access expert advice, leadership development, and match-funded technology grants to drive growth and innovation.

Manufacturers can register at: Made Smarter: Factories of the Future - Eventbrite

For all Made Smarter media enquiries contact Stuart Greer at Antao Greer Communications on 07799 289650 or stuart@antaogreer.com.

About Made Smarter
Following the success of the programme in the North West and other regions, Made Smarter has now expanded to the South East and East of England in order to drive growth in manufacturing SMEs and help them boost productivity through new industrial technologies.

Made Smarter South East's team of experts will provide advice and support to manufacturing businesses, makers and creators on how to switch to advanced and automated technologies to help improve productivity, reduce downtime, and boost competitiveness. This one-year £1.55 million pilot programme runs until March 31st 2026 providing match-funding (up to £20k), specialist advice, leadership training and student placements. Helping small and medium-sized businesses - and the people in them - keep their competitive edge, while boosting the South East economy.

Made Smarter East of England is currently in its pilot year, delivering across Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Cambridgeshire, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire. We're passionate about supporting East of England Manufacturing, helping businesses take on Industry 4.0 technology such as robotics, Internet of Things and Sensor tech. With approval from central government the Made Smarter East of England team will be pushing on into year 2 to support more businesses.

For more information, visit www.madesmarter.uk