Advanced Manufacturing

The advanced manufacturing sector in Norfolk and Suffolk is a reflection of the area’s diverse economic strengths. Advanced manufacturing strengths include civil aviation, pharmaceuticals and energy supply chains. Hethel Engineering Centre is the regional hub for innovation and technology and is expanding to meet the demand for incubation space in this growing sector.

There are several specialist advanced manufacturing companies in the area, including: Lotus, a class-leading manufacturer of sports cars; Multimatic, a specialist in vehicle dynamics; and Sanofi, a leader in biotechnology and pharmaceuticals.

The manufacturing and engineering industry is changing: with a shift away from metal to composite materials; a focus on renewables and biological substances; industrial biotechnology and plastic electronics; and new aerospace technologies. Suffolk and Norfolk have already established itself as a centre of excellence within these areas and we have both large employers and concentrations of smaller businesses across Suffolk and Norfolk, all making their mark as experts and innovators.

Our Sector Group

New Anglia Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering (NAAME) provides a business-led voice and secures income to deliver business support programmes, pilot innovation programmes and support for business start-ups. The group works with the LEP on skills and innovation projects.

By bringing businesses together, NAAME aims to improve facilities, raise attainment and aspiration and encourage inward investment.

The Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering sector has a workforce of 84,500 and 6000 enterprises.

You can find out more about NAAME here.