News: Productive Machines secures funding to help shore up UK digital supply chains

Productive Machines, a Rotherham-based startup that is set to transform UK digital supply chains has secured £510,000 from Digital Catapult.

Based within the Advanced Manufacturing Park's (AMP's) Technology Centre, Productive Machines uses a software simulation process called digital twinning to accelerate milling process design, reduce cycle time, eliminate quality problems and maximize productivity. Creating virtual replicas helps companies machine parts right the first time.

Digital Catapult helps businesses grow by applying deep tech, showing them what is possible, positive and productive with advanced technology.

The investment will enable the startup to scale the customer base for its SenseNC products, reshore manufacturing by increasing the competitiveness of local manufacturers, and drive greater resilience of UK digital supply chains.

Productive Machines has developed the world’s first autonomous milling optimisation software, SenseNC. The software streamlines machining operations by simulating and optimising various machine settings, helping manufacturers to optimise performance before operations are sent to CNC (computer numeric control) machine tools to precisely cut, shape, and finish materials. This computer-controlled machining method reduces the need for time-consuming trial-and-error processes, where production approaches are tested and refined. SenseNC minimises waste, lowers costs, and delivers significant gains in sustainability and productivity.

The Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) solution has already been successfully trialled by manufacturers in the aerospace sector, including AML, a leader in the precision machining of metallic components, resulting in optimised and decarbonised manufacturing processes. The company managed to reshore production of two different aerospace parts back to the UK from overseas suppliers. Similar success has been achieved with partners such as FICEP UK, a leading supplier of structural steel and plate fabrication machine tools, and the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (AMIC) in Belfast.

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Following Digital Catapult’s investment, Productive Machines is looking to respond to expressions of interest from prospective partners and customers in Europe and the US.

Digital Catapult’s investment takes the form of a convertible loan note and is made available by Innovate UK to allow Catapults to invest directly in the businesses they are supporting.

Erdem Ozturk, CEO and Co-founder of Productive Machines, said: " Digital Catapult’s investment will enable us to grow our customer base in the UK and Europe as well as expand to international markets where there is growing demand and interest in our solution. The UK has long been a leader in manufacturing, but with increasing global competition, solutions like our SenseNC software will be critical to sharpening the country’s competitive edge and reshoring processes back into the UK. Our next step will be to invest further into direct sales and partnerships, where we hope to demonstrate the value of investing into deep tech, and how collaboration and partnership is key to long-term startup and sectoral success."

Susan Bowen, CEO, Digital Catapult, added: "With a solution that can cut costs, decarbonise operations and increase productivity for manufacturers across the country, Productive Machines’ solution could transform the UK’s digital supply chains. With this investment, we are looking forward to working closely with Productive Machines to unlock opportunities to reshore UK manufacturing and boost industrial competitiveness."

In 2023, Productive Machines, a spinout from the The University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC), raised £2.2m in Seed funding.

Local MP Sarah Champion, recently visited the firm. She said: "It’s inspiring to see the incredible work being done by Productive Machines right here in Rotherham. Their cutting-edge technology is not only boosting productivity and sustainability for UK manufacturers but also making reshoring a viable option. This is exactly the kind of innovation we need to strengthen British industry and create high-value jobs locally."

Productive Machines website
Digital Catapult website

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News: Rotherham tech firm targets US

A Rotherham-based software company has secured its first order in the USA and entered a strategic partnership to target the country's manufacturing sector.

With offices in Dinnington, IntelliAM uses AI models to proactively increase operating efficiency of the existing assets of the company's manufacturing clients.

IntelliAM uses machine learning and AI solutions to tap into billions of manufacturing data points to boost productivity and reduce operating costs for customers which include Muller, Mars, ADM, Weetabix, and Hovis.

An order has recently been received for IntelliAM AI platform services and sensor supplies from a high-quality food manufacturer in the USA for three of its major manufacturing sites.

The order provides for IntelliAM AI to supply software, technology support and sensors on-site which will enable the manufacturer to maximise its manufacturing efficiencies and return on investment. The order covers an initial period of 12 months.

Tom Clayton, CEO of IntelliAM AI, said: "This is an important new customer for IntelliAM and our first in the USA. Our respective teams have been working closely together to develop a bespoke programme of enhanced asset care deploying our AI and machine learning platforms for the three manufacturing sites."

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The company collects vast amounts of data from the client's machines and operational systems which is processed through the IntelliAM platform to provide actionable insights that encompass a broad range of areas, such as productivity, reliability and supply-chain optimisation, as well as energy efficiency and sustainability.

In a bid to accelerate growth in the american market, the firm is also working with US-based hardware innovator, Connection Technology Center (CTC), to co-develop advanced smart sensing solutions for the manufacturing sector.

The collaboration brings together CTC’s industry-leading industrial sensors with IntelliAM’s powerful AI platform, launching dual-branded hardware that integrates directly into IntelliAM’s system.

The joint solution is designed help US manufacturers bridge critical data gaps and provide access to richer real-time insights for asset performance, reliability, and predictive maintenance.

Together, the companies aim to bring smarter, data-driven asset management tools to manufacturers and asset-intensive industries across the USA.

Clayton, added: "This isn’t just a partnership, it’s a powerful alignment of two companies with shared ambition and complementary strengths.

“CTC is renowned for the quality and reliability of its hardware, and we’re excited to pair that with our AI-powered platform to deliver a solution that stands out in the market.

“This partnership represents a critical step forward in delivering our vision. By combining our AI-driven insights platform with dual-branded advanced sensory technology, we’re enabling a new level of data completeness and operational visibility for our customers.

“We’ve worked closely with the CTC team, and this agreement reflects our mutual confidence and shared focus on innovation. We’re proud to be bringing this new solution to the US industrial market at a time when the demand for actionable, real-time data has never been higher.”

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News: IntelliAM AI strengthen senior management team to drive growth

Rotherham-based software company, IntelliAM AI plc has strengthened its senior team as it plans further growth.

With offices in Dinnington, IntelliAM uses AI models to proactively increase operating efficiency of the existing assets of the company's manufacturing clients. Richards believes that the company is responsible for "the best AI tech in the manufacturing/productivity sector" and in 2024 it joined the Aquis Stock Exchange Growth Market, raising £5m in the process.

Rothbiz reported recently on David Richards MBE, co-founder and non-executive chairman of Rotherham-based software company, IntelliAM AI plc, stepping down as chairman and as a director as part of a planned transition.

IntelliAM, uses machine learning and AI solutions to tap into billions of manufacturing data points to boost productivity and reduce operating costs for customers which include Muller, Mars, ADM, Weetabix, and Hovis.

Jane Robinson has been appointed as Vice President for Business Development at IntelliAM which counts six of the world's top 12 food and drink producers as customers.

Jane is a former Founding Director of engineering business Cutting Technologies and has more recently delivered financial change management projects for large public sector organisations and private sector companies.

A well-known figure in the South Yorkshire business community, and a Member of the Company of Cutlers in Hallamshire, Jane will lead IntelliAM's accelerated growth and cross-channel marketing.

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IntelliAM has also recently appointed Ian Wild as VP of Product. Ian, who is based in San Francisco, has significant multi-national experience as a Customer Experience VP, Partner Solutions VP and Senior Solutions Architect.

Owain Lewis has been appointed as VP of Data Engineering. Owain joins IntelliAM following a lengthy career as a senior applications architect working for PLCs and limited companies including PlusNet and TechnoPhobia.

IntelliAM CEO, Tom Clayton, said: "IntelliAM is fast becoming a leader in the science of manufacturing, and we are thrilled Jane has joined us permanently to help drive our brand forward, both in the UK and globally.

"Jane has a deep knowledge of the manufacturing and engineering sectors and, as a former director at a successful SME, she knows how to leverage growth through smart business development and impactful marketing."

Jane Robinson added: "Manufacturers do not need to break the bank to rebuild old factories or replace legacy equipment - instead, they can use the data taken from existing machines to understand how efficiency can be improved, productivity increased, downtime minimised, and energy reduced.

"The scope for game-changing improvement across the entire manufacturing sector is colossal, and I'm looking forward to growing both internal and external relationships to support IntelliAM's expansion."

IntelliAM AI website

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News: Richards to step down from board at listed Rotherham firm

David Richards MBE, co-founder and non-executive chairman of Rotherham-based software company, IntelliAM AI plc, will step down as chairman and as a director as part of a planned transition.

With offices in Dinnington, IntelliAM uses AI models to proactively increase operating efficiency of the existing assets of the company's manufacturing clients. Richards believes that the company is responsible for "the best AI tech in the manufacturing/productivity sector" and in 2024 it joined the Aquis Stock Exchange Growth Market, raising £5m in the process.

The listing followed on from an initial fundraising with venture capital funding and tech knowhow from Yorkshire AI Labs, where Richards is a managing partner having previously founded and led a series of software businesses during a 25-year career in Silicon Valley.

IntelliAM AI said that the decision aligns with the board's post-IPO succession plan, which envisaged the tenure as chairman lasting for 12 months following the successful public listing. David will remain in the role of chairman for the next six months and provide continuity during a planned transition period.

David Richards MBE, said: "As Co-Founder of Intelliam AI, I am immensely proud of what we have achieved since the company's inception and during our journey to becoming a listed entity. The decision to step down as Chairman has always been part of our strategic plan, enabling me to focus on my role as Managing Partner of Yorkshire AI Labs, which remains fully committed to supporting Intelliam AI as a 20% shareholder.

"My belief in the company's vision, strategy, and leadership team is unwavering, and I look forward to continuing to support its success through my ongoing involvement."

The company collects vast amounts of data from the client's machines and operational systems which is processed through the IntelliAM platform to provide actionable insights that encompass a broad range of areas, such as productivity, reliability and supply-chain optimisation, as well as energy efficiency and sustainability.

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The share placing enabled the completion of a £5m acquisition of 53 North, a Dinnington-based provider of a broad range of asset care consulting and management strategies for manufacturers, particularly in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector, including McVities (Pladis), Mars, Diageo and PepsiCo.

Leveraging 53 North’s existing clients, the six months from the IPO (initial public offering) has been a busy time for the group. Since IPO it has doubled the number of clients using the IntelliAM platform.

An extension to an existing agreement was announced with a large global leader in beverage alcohol, along with a contract win with Hovis.

It has also signed a Letter of Intent with Sweden's SKF, the world's largest bearing and lubrication systems manufacturer.

The group was also named as a Lighthouse for AI and received £263,000 funding approval for a research project.

Tom Clayton, Chief Executive Officer at IntelliAM AI plc, said: "We are pleased with the strong progress made in this first half, as we continue to execute on our strategic goals. The successful completion of our IPO and acquisition of 53 Degrees North Engineering have significantly strengthened our foundation, and we are starting to see the benefits of aligning our consulting expertise with the IntelliAM platform.

"The momentum we are building with our AI-driven technology is particularly exciting, as it positions us to deliver greater value to our growing customer base while enhancing recurring revenue streams. With a robust pipeline of opportunities and a clear focus on innovation, we are well-placed to drive further growth and continue advancing our vision for the future of AI in manufacturing."

IntelliAM AI website

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News: IntelliAM AI secures DIF Lighthouse Funding Award

A subsidiary of IntelliAM AI plc, the Rotherham software company leveraging the power of AI and machine learning in the manufacturing industry, has been named as a "Lighthouse for AI" and secures a Digital Innovation Fund (DIF) Lighthouse Funding Award of £263,000.

The Dinnington firm, which recently floated on the stock exchange, has developed a platform that can be used when determining optimum run speeds or machine settings, help with stock keeping and hygiene processes, and help predict and prevent component failure. The aim is to increase production levels and reduce downtime.

The funding is for a research project into the application of AI in lubrication analysis is made by The Smart Manufacturing Data Hub which is funded by Innovate UK.

IntelliAM AI recently acquired 53 North, a provider of a broad range of asset care consulting and management strategies for manufacturers, particularly in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector, including McVities (Pladis), Mars, Diageo and PepsiCo.

IntelliAM AI has access to over 180 manufacturing sites in the UK and has lubrication analysis results for thousands of components from the last ten years. Lubrication is one of the key drivers of manufacturing downtime.

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Using IntelliAM’s existing data, and new data to be collected during the project, a machine learning model will be created to advise OEMs and SMEs on best practice lubrication for their components.

Software will be built that allows component information to be entered and the MLM will then create the grease and oil lubrication schedules automatically. Software will also be built that creates an on-condition lubrication schedule based on bearing condition.

An oil analysis result checker will be created, so that organisations can upload individual oil analysis results and compare themselves to our 10 years of history, specific to the environment and component types. Any issues will be highlighted and advice on action given.

This project will help reduce machine downtime on manufacturers equipment and create resilience against the reduction in engineering skills that we currently have in the UK. Sustainability will be improved as oil will only be replaced when needed.

This project will impact the Company on three fronts, namely improved internal productivity, new machine learning access to SMEs and a commercial product to increase sales.

IntelliAM website

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News: Rotherham AI firm floats on stock exchange

A Rotherham-based software company responsible for "the best AI tech in the manufacturing/productivity sector" has joined the Aquis Stock Exchange Growth Market, raising £5m in the process.

With offices in Dinnington, which is in Rotherham, IntelliAM uses AI models to proactively increase operating efficiency of the existing assets of the company's manufacturing clients. The group achieves this by harnessing vast amounts of data from the client's machines and operational systems processed through the IntelliAM platform to provide actionable insights for clients that encompass a broad range of areas, such as productivity, reliability and supply-chain optimisation, as well as energy efficiency and sustainability.

The platform can be used when determining optimum run speeds or machine settings, help with stock keeping and hygiene processes, and help predict and prevent component failure. The aim is to increase production levels and reduce downtime.

Aquis Stock Exchange is designed specifically for growth enterprises and offers the first stage of being a publicly quoted company. The move follows on from an initial fundraising with venture capital funding and tech knowhow from Yorkshire AI Labs.

The trading of shares has raised gross proceeds of £5,079,989, meaning that the market capitalisation of IntelliAM was approximately £15.4m.

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The share placing has also enabled the completion of a £5m acquisition of 53 North and the placing of new shares, meaning that market cap increases to £19m.

Based at Dinnington, 53 North is a provider of a broad range of asset care consulting and management strategies for manufacturers, particularly in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector, including McVities (Pladis), Mars, Diageo and PepsiCo.

Leveraging 53 North’s existing clients, IntelliAM's strategy is to organically develop its technology platform while also rolling out a robust go-to-market strategy to support its ambitious growth plans. Remaining proceeds (around £3m) are set to be used to continue research and development to accelerate platform and software module development, to hire additional key personnel (machine learning data scientists and software engineers) and to fund the ongoing working capital costs.

Tom Clayton, Chief Executive Officer of IntelliAM, said: "We are delighted to be joining the AQSE Growth Market at a time when we have combined our established manufacturing asset management consultancy with our more recently developed and launched IntelliAM AI platform. We believe that this platform has immense and proven potential to reduce unscheduled manufacturing downtime, improve producer operating efficiencies and thereby increase our clients' profitability."

Clayton founded 53 North Group over a decade ago. David Richards co-founder and former CEO of WANdisco Plc (now Cirata Plc) is IntelliAM's non-exec director, alongside Professor Keith Ridgway CBE and Dame Julie Kenny DBE DL, who both take independent non-exec director roles.

IntelliAM website

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News: Probe RTS opens AMP office

Probe RTS, a company that has helped several manufacturing businesses across the UK and beyond to improve their service delivery and operations has expanded to new Rotherham premises.

The consultancy works with manufacturing businesses in the automotive, medical, electronics, white goods, motorsport, packaging and food and drink sectors and will be based in the Technology Centre on the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP).

Established in South Wales in 2005, Probe provides consultancy, training and the provision of third party process and quality engineering support nationally and internationally.

With offices in Bridgend and Nottingham and associate offices in Mainland Europe and South East Asia, the firm supports manufacturing companies in all aspects of knowledge transfer and project implementation across the process and quality engineering spectrum.

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In parallel with the company's geographical expansion, Probe has focussed on the development of its KPI business intelligence reporting tool in recent months.

The web-based tool, which is called POET, an acronym for Probe Operational Excellence Transformation, makes real-time performance data accessible from any corner of the world.

Probe is also looking to strengthen its team through a network of Business Advisory and specialist Lean Manufacturing associates.

Philip Roberts, director at Probe RTS, said: "This is an incredibly exciting time for the business. The reputation of the AMRC and the AMP is sky-rocketing and to be situated in the heart of it is great for Probe. This gives us a great platform to sell our services and introduce our POET software into businesses where it can make a real difference."

Providing incubation space on the AMP, the Technology Centre has been designed to accommodate a range of manufacturing-related activities, from fledgling engineering and technology companies, to University spin-offs and subsidiaries of established companies.

A £4.5m extension to meet demand at the centre opened last year.

Probe RTS website

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News: nCode lands Liebherr-Aerospace deal

HBM nCode, the leading brand of fatigue and durability software which based on the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham, has secured a deal with Liebherr-Aerospace Toulouse SAS, one of Europe's leading manufacturers of air management systems for aircraft.

With reports showing that 50-90% of all structural failures are due to fatigue failure, HBM nCode supplies leading names including General Motors, Chrysler, Bombardier and Lockheed Martin with technology and software products for durability and performance analyses.

Liebherr-Aerospace Toulouse SAS produces aviation equipment including flight control and actuation systems, landing gear and air management systems as well as gearboxes for civil and military sectors.

nCode Automation has been selected by Liebherr-Aerospace Toulouse SAS as their preferred tool for performing robust and automated analyses. The company's next generation R&D facilities in France enable them to run full-scale tests, simulating conditions with air pressure sources and temperatures ranging from 0.1 to 40 bar abs and from -60° to +700°C.

Combining automated data storage, analysis and reporting, the software applies some of the same concepts used in business intelligence to engineering data, enabling data to be processed for trends and identifying relationships that can be used to make better decisions.

Julien André from the Development Testing Service at Liebherr-Aerospace, said: "Our challenge was to find a solution that addressed the analysis needs of our different service sectors and did not require programming knowledge. nCode Automation, with its user-friendly interface, allows the five sectors of our Developmental Testing Services to collaborate and analyse the constant stream of data generated by the 28 test cells at our test centre."

With this software adoption, HBM-nCode and Liebherr-Aerospace are continuing and strengthening their technical partnership. In addition to nCode Automation, Liebherr-Aerospace has also been a long-time user of nCode DesignLife for simulating the life of their equipment to ensure sustainability and nCode GlyphWorks for robust analysis of their test data.

Steve Tudberry, CEO at HBM nCode, said: "We are pleased that Liebherr-Aerospace has expanded their use of nCode software to support the development and maintenance of their equipment. This new implementation at Liebherr confirms our innovative and growing applications within the aerospace industry worldwide."

Shortly after moving from Sheffield onto the AMP, nCode was acquired by German company, HBM in 2008, in a deal thought to be worth around £20m. HBM is a wholly-owned subsidiary company of Spectris plc, a group specialised in precision instrumentation and electronic controls.

HBM nCode website

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News: nCode set to grow through acquisition

HBM nCode, the leading brand of fatigue and durability software, has confirmed the acquisition of ReliaSoft, an industry leader in reliability engineering software and services, through its parent organisation, Spectris plc.

Shortly after moving from Sheffield onto the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham, nCode was acquired by German company, HBM in 2008, in a deal thought to be worth around £20m. HBM is a wholly-owned subsidiary company of Spectris plc, a group specialised in precision instrumentation and electronic controls.

With reports showing that 50-90% of all structural failures are due to fatigue failure, HBM nCode supplies leading names including General Motors, Chrysler, Bombardier and Lockheed Martin with technology and software products for durability and performance analyses.

Following completion of the latest deal, worth around £28m, Arizona-based ReliaSoft will be integrated with HBM nCode. The move is expected to strengthen HBM nCode's growing engineering software business and will build on the strong brand recognition and reputation of both ReliaSoft and HBM nCode. The business is also expected to benefit from the investment and global network that will come as being part of HBM nCode, which has sites in America, France and Germany.

Customer needs are growing for fatigue, reliability, failure data analysis and asset management software, and the combined offering will enable accelerated growth in current markets and facilitate growth in new markets. This covers oil and gas, chemical, food, machinery, medical, electronics, power plant, and pharmaceuticals. The combined entity will strengthen software sales, marketing and development expertise for both organisations on a global scale: combining two organisations having proven track records of selling "Commercial off the Shelf" (COTS) engineering software.

Brian Dabell who leads the management team of the combined organisation, said: "This is a strategic move for HBM nCode. There are many advantages to this initiative and the leadership team at HBM nCode has a strong interest in developing and investing in ReliaSoft's technology and its highly talented workforce. This will provide the opportunity for our organisation to accelerate growth and expansion into key international markets, delivering exceptional value to our customers."

Eoghan O'Lionaird, business group director at Spectris plc, added: "We believe there is a strong cultural fit with HBM nCode, and that the combined capabilities will create additional value for our customers as well as increasing HBM's resilient revenue stream. The acquisition is also in line with our strategy to grow existing businesses through acquisition, and fits the Spectris financial profile of attractive margins and strong cash generation."

HBM nCode website

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News: Biz-ICT becomes PointSolutions

Rotherham IT specialist, Biz-ICT has been rebranded to PointSolutions to strengthen its links with a Microsoft software solution.

Based at RIDO's Century Business Centre in Manvers, the enterprise is an accredited Microsoft SharePoint specialist, providing integrated collaboration and business process applications, such as human resources, training, health and safety and intranets.

SharePoint is a growing platform for businesses to use and is included within Microsoft’s Office 365 cloud software alongside Word, Excel and PowerPoint.

PointSolutions' senior management team has a combined 25 years' experience in designing, delivering and supporting software solutions. Key clients have included Rolls Royce, SKY TV and Sheffield Hallam University.

Mark Walsh, managing director of PointSolutions, who formed the business in 2003, said: "We have rebranded to recognise the changing face of the software market and to mark the growth of our business in recent years.

"PointSolutions is a recognised term within the sector for a high-end "best of breed" product, so it fits very well with our overall business objectives.

"We are a specialist in a very niche market, and so we need to be accessible, open and personal to key business decision makers in order for them to understand the benefits SharePoint can provide.

"The software sector can be a daunting and complicated sector to many businesses, and we are keen to make our services more approachable for senior management teams and business owners across the UK.

"PointSolutions is a better fit with our long-term strategy to provide expert support to all companies through our unique applications and training services."

The company is set to launch its latest SharePoint HR application at The CIPD Annual Conference and Exhibition in Manchester in November.

PointSolutions website

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News: EPLAN at 30

EPLAN, the leader in Computer Aided Engineering (CAE) software, recently celebrated its 30th anniversary at the Hannover Messe, announcing expansion plans and the company's continued growth in the UK.

With UK headquarters at Hellaby, EPLAN is a subsidiary of Rittal, within the Friedhelm Loh Group. The software supports the electrical design within important parts of the engineering process, from CNC machines to the programmable controllers of factory assembly lines. What began in 1984 by substituting paper and ink with a PC and software has continued to develop, the EPLAN "platform" supports interdisciplinary work, from fluid engineering and process plant engineering to harness design and 3D enclosure design tools.

The EPLAN UK division was recently recognised for its achievements in 2013 by being awarded with two EPLAN Group awards including "Top Company Performance" and "Highest Company Growth." The continued success is attributed to the focused approach the UK team is placing on selling and marketing the company's advanced software solutions. EPLAN provides customers with much more than a software application, offering a complete engineering package, including training and consultancy to enhance the engineering process for customers.

Globally EPLAN has more than 40,000 customers, over 100,000 installations in more than 50 countries and over 700 employees. EPLAN is set to create more than 100 additional jobs by the end of 2014 and is opening three new subsidiaries in Japan, South Africa and Turkey, proving the success of the company, which began as a three-man venture in 1984.

Maximilian Brandl, president of EPLAN, said: "Our market for CAE solutions is the world. EPLAN is excellently positioned as a global company and I see huge opportunities in growth markets."

Greater expansion is planned for the USA, China, India, Japan and here in the UK and EPLAN is aiming for substantial double-digit growth in 2014.

EPLAN UK website

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News: Local recruiters merge to enhance national presence

Growing national recruiter, Nicholas Associates, has announced a strategic merger with specialist agency, Trinity Recruitment Group.

Last year Rotherham's Stafforce, consolidated its brands and refocused its strategy to enable the company to offer businesses a clear route to greater productivity, efficiency and success.

In response to market demands, Stafforce now offers an extended range of added-value services to clients through its Stafforce Recruitment and Nicholas Associates brands.

Established in 1977 by local entrepreneur, now chairman, Nick Cragg, Stafforce employs 155 staff nationwide. In 2010, a partial management buyout, led by Ian Anderson, chief executive, and Bruce Allen, finance director at Stafforce, saw the senior management team take ownership of 15% of the share holding of the business. Since then, the group has grown through a number of acquisitions. TEK Personnel and Action 4 Business have been integrated within Nicholas Associates and Relay Recruitment, based in Bradford and Leeds, has become Stafforce Recruitment.

The company believes that with the addition of financial and creative recruitment services that Trinity brings to its portfolio, it can now satisfy virtually every recruitment requirement to all sectors.

With a head office on Percy Street in Rotherham town centre and over 150 staff, Stafforce Recruitment, provides temporary and permanent recruitment. Sister company, Nicholas Associates, which has offices in Sheffield, offers recruitment, learning and talent development, robotics and automation, software development and Lean business services to its clients.

Paul Brammer, director at Nicholas Associates (pictured, left), said: "The deal is very much a meeting of minds. Trinity is a superb boutique firm whose management team has longstanding client relationships based on delivery, trust and integrity - which fits perfectly with our company culture and ethos. With the knowledge and specialisms the team at Trinity will bring to Nicholas Associates, we can bring clients a greater breadth and depth to the existing offer.

"The more capability we have, the greater our ability to partner employers on the whole company life cycle, from inception through growth and development to succession management or buyout – as well as working with their partner companies along the chain that brings the product or service to market."

Sheffield and Doncaster agency, Trinity, and its subsidiary, Hash Creative, a niche regional and national recruiter for the creative sector, will be integrated into the Nicholas Associates brand and bolster its national presence.

The opportunity for managing director, Peter Bone (pictured, right), who co-founded Trinity with his wife, Natalie, is for his team to grow and develop by bringing its specialisms and skills to markets nationwide.

He said: "The merger has come at a great time for Trinity. Natalie and I and the other members of Trinity and Hash Creative are very excited about the future.

"Our clients will benefit from not only a wider range of services but they will also be able to able to draw from a bigger talent pool, while candidates will have an amplified range of career enhancing opportunities on a larger scale."

Stafforce is a £60m business and on track to becoming a £100m operation.

Nicholas Associates website

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News: Lanner joins AMRC

Lanner, a UK-based provider of predictive simulation technology proven to maximise performance and optimise resources, has joined the University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) with Boeing.

Based on the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) in Rotherham, the AMRC is a world class centre for advanced machining and materials research for aerospace and other high-value manufacturing sectors. Through its role in the High Value Manufacturing Catapult, it supports growth in the manufacturing sector by helping organisations to incubate and develop new technologies through to commercial reality.

The agreement will see Lanner provide its WITNESS predictive simulation platform for use within AMRC's R&D activities, whilst increasing awareness of the benefits of the software amongst AMRC's 70 member companies.

Lanner's predictive simulation technology allows organisations to harness big data, model complex processes and experiment with business decisions within a risk free, virtual environment. Some of the world's most successful manufacturing companies rely on Lanner simulation software to help improve their productivity. Names like Rolls-Royce, Airbus and BAE Systems use the software to reduce lead times and bottlenecks, increase capacity and reduce operating costs.

Rab Scott, head of simulation and visualisation at the AMRC, said: "We are delighted to welcome Lanner to the AMRC with Boeing. Modelling and simulation are an increasingly important part of 21st century manufacturing, and Lanner's expertise and software allow us to develop simulation models of new processes and facilities and quickly demonstrate their impact on productivity. This lets us demonstrate to our manufacturing partners the potential cost savings that can be achieved through the use of Lanner's software."

David Jones, CEO of Lanner, added: "Continued reports of increased output and upgraded forecasts from manufacturers are hugely encouraging, and are testament to the resilience and innovation demonstrated by the sector.

"Process technologies can substantially improve the way in which organisations operate and service their customers, and we are delighted to be working with such a highly acclaimed organisation to support best practice, and raise awareness of the role predictive simulation can play in driving process innovation in manufacturing."

AMRC website
Lanner website

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News: U-Explore adds enterprise to careers software

Rotherham education specialist, U-Explore, is providing advice, inspiration and support to young people who may want to consider taking the plunge and setting up their own enterprise.

Based in Templeborough, U-Explore specialises in enabling schools to deliver reality based careers information, advice and guidance. Their U-Explore national school product is an innovative software solution which engages with young people through cutting edge media.

Recognising the need for more socially responsible entrepreneurs, U-Explore launched the new "Start Your Own Business" application on its national careers platform earlier this year to provide advice, inspiration and support to young people who may want to consider taking the plunge and setting up their own enterprise.

The platform helps students to find their own destinations and the pathways to help them get there, with job profiles and video case studies. Now "Start Your Own Business" features hints and tips on the factors that need to be considered in the very early stages of business start-up, along with case studies of real entrepreneurs sharing their advice and experiences, a comprehensive business plan writing guide, advice on the financial side of setting up and running a business and many other features.

James Frith, managing director of U-Explore, said: "We need more employers, risk takers and entrepreneurs. Where the risk in an idea is embraced, an entrepreneur commits their idea to the economy, employs themselves with others and sets to the task… as an entrepreneur!

"U-Explore supports the need for new entrepreneurs with social consciences getting on with business. Their contribution to the economic wealth of the whole country with well run companies making money, growing employment as producers doing good business, can underpin social mobility and provide repeat opportunity for all."

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News: New term, new U-Explore

Rotherham education specialist, U-Explore, has made a number of new developments to its innovative national careers platform ready for the new school year.

Based in Templeborough, U-Explore specialises in enabling schools to deliver reality based careers information, advice and guidance. Their U-Explore national school product is an innovative software solution which engages with young people through cutting edge media.

New government requirements on statutory careers guidance means that all schools now have a duty to provide their young people across years 9 to 11 with access to independent careers guidance that includes all 16 to 18 education or training options.

With this in mind, U-Explore's national careers platform has been rebuilt from the ground up, with the involvement of teachers and students, to create an unrivalled learning experience.

Added to the impartial information, advice and guidance, new features and benefits include an enhanced search function, CV building and help with preparing for the world of work.

James Frith, managing director at U-Explore, said: "We always look forward to welcoming schools back for the new term and this year, we are more excited than ever to present U-Explore's newest version.

"The schools we work with understand the opportunity that the new statutory guidance offers them to provide ambitious, effective and relevant careers education, information, advice and guidance, and U-Explore's impact on the work to bridge the gap between education and employment just got bigger and better."

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News: U-Explore impresses MPs

A local MP and Shadow Treasury Minister visited U-Explore in Rotherham this week to learn more about the company's innovative approach to careers guidance following news that youth unemployment figures have hit a record high.

Wentworth and Dearne MP John Healey and Shadow Chief Secretary to the Treasury Rachel Reeves MP received a first-hand look at how U-Explore is working to ensure that all young people are able to progress into suitable employment and training, regardless of their circumstance, and make informed, educated decisions about their futures.

Based in Templeborough, U-Explore specialises in enabling schools to deliver reality based careers information, advice and guidance. Their U-Explore national school product is an innovative software solution which engages with young people through cutting edge media.

The MP's were also introduced to the work that U-Explore has been doing to support both foundation learners and young people who are not in education, employment or training (NEET) - with projects already well underway in Sheffield and Leicestershire, respectively.

James Frith, managing director of U-Explore, said: "It is always good to be asked to show off the work we are doing to help improve young people's chances of finding employment. We are thrilled to do so with such important national figures. Youth unemployment and getting young people ready for work is such an important aspect of the work we do."

U-Explore has recently appointed Adele Holmes as finance and operations manager.

Adele has over 15 years in accounting and management within similar sized organisations achieving growth. She brings with her established experience in designing and implementing successful financial models.

Adele said: "I'm thrilled to have been appointed the Finance and Operations Manager of U-Explore. The flagship U-Explore product is unique, exciting and is already available in one third of secondary schools in England. I hope we will soon be in all of them!"

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News: nCode at the forefront of fatigue

Rotherham-based nCode, the leading brand of fatigue and durability software, is to release a new product to predict the fatigue of composite materials.

Composite materials are increasingly being used in high-performance products that need to be lightweight but strong, such as aerospace and automotive components.

The fatigue of composites poses particular challenges for engineers because the properties of the constituent parts, polymer (resin) matrix and fibres, interact to determine the fatigue properties, which vary in each location and direction.

Based on the Advanced Manufacturing Park, nCode's new innovative and industry leading solutions for fatigue of composites are a result of collaboration with e-Xstream engineering, provider of state-of-the-art material modeling platform, DIGIMAT.

The initial focus of the new DesignLife software is in the area of engineering plastics, such as short fibre polymers, which are commonly used in the automotive industry.

The aim is to answer the question "how long will it last?" or "will it pass the test?" before engineers and manufacturers even have prototype components.

Steve Tudberry, vice-president HBM-nCode software, said: "With the drive for reduced weight and increased fuel efficiency, the transportation sector is turning to lightweight materials such as polymers and composites. The challenge for automotive and aerospace manufacturers is to ensure the required longevity and durability under real operating conditions.

"The partnership with e-Xstream brings together the global leaders in our respective fields to provide a seamless and robust solution for fatigue analysis of composites."

nCode was acquired by German company, HBM in 2008 in a deal thought to be worth around £20m. They supply leading names including General Motors, Chrysler and Lockheed Martin.

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News: U-Explore to support footballing apprentices

League Football Education (LFE) has signed up with innovative Rotherham education specialist, U-Explore, to offer careers education to football apprentices across the country.

League Football Education (LFE) manages the educational programme for apprentices at the 72 clubs within the Football League. These apprentices join the Apprenticeship in Sporting Excellence (ASE), which aims to bring out the very best in sporting ability, whilst delivering a high standard of education, too.

U-Explore's educational products support careers education and work-related learning. Their "Job Bank", "Where Could I Work?" and "360-Degree Virtual Tours" packages use cutting edge media to bring careers education to life.

Figures show that after a two-year football Apprenticeship, approximately 60% of apprentices are let go. In line with these figures, LFE intends to use U-Explore to give apprentices access to careers advice across a range of industries.

Providing these young people with in-depth careers education through U-Explore will help to arm those that are not part of the select few to make it in this industry with the tools to build on an alternative career.

U-Explore will help to show young apprentices what they can do with the qualifications, experience and personal skills they already have, as well as pointing them in the right direction for further qualifications.

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News: U-Explore showcase new products

Rotherham company, U-Explore are showcasing its new range of innovative educational products to support careers education and work-related learning.

The U-Explore team will be exhibiting at the National Career Guidance Show at the Royal Armouries in Leeds this week and Wembley Stadium, London, on March 9 - 10, 2011.

U-Explore specialises in enabling schools to deliver reality based careers information, advice and guidance. Their U-Explore national school product is an innovative software solution which engages with young people through cutting edge media.

Experts from the Templeborough company will be on hand to offer informal demonstrations of its six new online packages - Sector Trailers, Job Bank, My Options, Where Could I Work?, Work Experience and Enterprise - which can be bought individually, or in any combination, to help deliver careers education. They can be tailored to each school or college's needs, placing teachers in control of delivering meaningful careers education in the way that best suits both them and their learners.

James Frith, head of strategic development at U-Explore, said: "U-Explore understands the significant expectations on schools and teachers in this changing education environment. We have responded with an expanded and much improved offer for our customers and are delighted to be exhibiting at the forthcoming National Career Guidance Show.

"We've all been affected by the changes in education and funding and that's why we now have a new six-product range of education resources. All online, individually available or in any combination, these resources build on our history of "Outstanding" educational tools and are fit for any and all size budgets across education requirement."

U-Explore recently joined forces with CASCAiD to offer schools and colleges a complete solution for the delivery of careers IAG, by aligning their two market-leading products - Kudos and U-Explore Options.

James added:"We cannot wait to show off our new Job Bank, our integration with Kudos and the amazing My Options product - an ideal tool for student progression and teaching requirements to provide such qualitative information."

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News: U-Explore and CASCAiD join forces

Innovative Rotherham education specialist, U-Explore, has agreed a formal partnership with CASCAiD to offer schools and colleges a complete solution for the delivery of Careers IAG.



The move adds value to the organisations' delivery of careers education, information, advice and guidance (CEIAG).

By aligning their two market-leading products - Kudos and U-Explore Options - CASCAiD and U-Explore are set to provide a first class solution to schools' statutory requirements for CEIAG, "U-Explore Kudos."

Kudos is a diagnostic tool which generates personalised career suggestions based on interests and aspirations, stimulating young people to explore their career options. U-Explore Options combines an online Job Bank of video interviews and 360-degree Virtual Tours with interactive career exploration management that helps students make informed option choices.

James Frith, Head of Strategic Development at U-Explore, said: "This exciting development provides the best of both worlds for all our customers. We recognise that Kudos is an excellent resource. By linking our product range to this strong and trusted diagnostic tool, we will be providing the solution to the new CEIAG requirements at a single point of customer entry."

Customers will be able to access Kudos through a link from U-Explore products. Results from Kudos will be matched to U-Explore Options content, equipping customers with a diagnostic tool alongside engaging, interactive media. This will enhance the delivery of careers guidance in schools and colleges. Students will have more options for accessing advice and guidance to help them with their choice of learning and career pathways.

Lynda Lacey, Chief Executive of CASCAiD Ltd, added: "We are delighted to be working alongside U-Explore to integrate Kudos into their innovative Careers IAG range of products. Kudos celebrates its 20th anniversary this year and this integration project could not have come at a better time following John Hayes MP, Minister of State for Further Education, Skills and Lifelong Learning, recent announcement about the importance and future direction of careers guidance."

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