This project supported the NWDA objective of creating an internationally competitive nuclear decommissioning sector in the Northwest. Services were delivered using a proven technology transfer approach and a wide range of world-class expert resources working with established regional support organisations to help companies secure their position in supply chains.
The knowledge transfer activity in this project delivered benefits to industry both in key technical areas as well as providing commercial guidance on issues such as sector entry, tendering and business strategy.
This project was aimed at manufacturing SMEs interested in entering the nuclear decommissioning sector or in developing their position in same. Their main challenges include quality, standards and introducing innovation as well as understanding their potential role in the decommissioning sector and how to progress towards active involvement. The NWSC project addressed all these areas.
TWI has developed special skills in providing technical support to SMEs; this project was delivered by a team including WCDA and NNL which brought together local knowledge, nuclear know-how and commercial expertise to meet the project objectives.
Manufacturing companies gained benefits including:
- Technical Benefits - improved productivity and efficiency - Introduction of new products and processes - higher product quality - more efficient use of materials and reduced waste and re-work - enhanced capabilities, knowledge and skills - adoption of a change/continuous improvement culture - reduction or elimination of technical risk
- Commercial benefits – improved understanding of the nuclear decommissioning sector and opportunities for supply chain SMEs; access to buying organisations through contacts brokered by project partners; support in writing effective bids/increased business
Since 2004, TWI’s technology transfer activity has boosted business performance in the UK regions by creating/safeguarding over 3,555 jobs and £231M turnover.
Andy Hooper, MD of project beneficiary, Westlakes Engineering said “the business and marketing support from WCDA has been invaluable. Not only has it made us more competitive and allowed us to compete in a wider range of markets, it also enabled our company to justify the recruitment of four new members of staff”.
For more information about the North West Supply Chain project please contact us.
