The Manufacturing Digitalisation Summit returns to the NEC Birmingham on 4–5 June 2025, as part of Smart Manufacturing Week, uniting the UK’s most forward-thinking manufacturers, technology providers and industry leaders for two days of insight, collaboration and transformation.
Hosted by The Manufacturer, the Summit provides a unique platform where senior decision-makers, innovators and policymakers can engage in high-level discussions and hands-on knowledge exchange aimed at accelerating the digital transformation of UK manufacturing.
With global supply chains under pressure and economic realignment reshaping international trade, UK manufacturers are at a pivotal moment. According to Henry Anson, Director at The Manufacturer, “Recent events have presented UK manufacturers with the chance of a lifetime to rebuild the sector in a way that hasn’t been seen before. Global supply chains are arguably a thing of the past, we simply MUST make more ‘stuff’ at home, or very close to it. Now is the time for UK manufacturers to take a quantum leap forward, invest in people, process and machinery. Carpe Diem!”
What to Expect
Attendees can expect a dynamic format designed for active participation, including:
- Expert-led Keynote Presentations
- Interactive Roundtable Discussions
- Exclusive Panel Debates
- Hands-on Case Studies and Peer-to-Peer Networking
“This year’s Summit brings together some of the most forward-thinking minds in the industry,” said Ashley Oulton, Conference Producer. “What makes this event stand out is the highly interactive format. Delegates don’t just listen, they contribute. It’s a rare opportunity for manufacturing leaders to walk away with practical strategies they can implement immediately.”
Key focus areas include:
- AI in manufacturing
- Data-driven decision making
- Net zero pathways
- Extracting value from data
- Digitalising supply chains
- Workforce upskilling for Industry 4.0
As digital transformation takes centre stage, Stefan Clement, IT Manager, Worldwide Fruit, featured discussion leader at the summit, highlights the importance of both technology and talent in delivering sustainable change. “Digital transformation isn’t just about implementing new technologies it’s about empowering people to use them effectively. There’s a crucial balance between upskilling teams in digital and data literacy, and ensuring our systems are intuitive enough to reduce the training burden. True progress happens when technology meets usability, and everyone in the business can engage with it confidently.”
“AI is enabling us to think differently about traditional processes, not just making them more efficient but empowering our teams to work smarter and collaborate in new ways. Clean, structured data is the foundation, but when combined with machine learning, it opens the ability to bridge knowledge gaps, make faster decisions, and respond to customer needs with greater agility. The real opportunity lies in connecting people, systems and insight across the whole organisation and ensuring no one is left behind in the transformation.” Dan Middleton, Edwards, Atlas Copco
“This year’s conversations have really focused on how we bridge the gap between digital ambition and operational reality,” said Chris Morris, Airbus Defence & Space. “For us, it’s about making data work harder integrating it across tools, visualising it clearly, and making sure the right people own it at the right time. That’s how we’re driving smarter decisions earlier in the process and unlocking real value across the business.”
Confirmed speakers include senior leaders from AstraZeneca, Worldwide Fruit, Nissan, Airbus, General Motors, Rolls-Royce, Sertec, Jaguar Land Rover, and Atlas Copco, alongside tech innovators and government representatives committed to redefining the role of manufacturing in the UK’s economic future. You can view the full list of speakers and their detailed biographies on our website: manufacturing-digitalisation.com/speakers
Smart Manufacturing in Action
Joe Bush, Editor of The Manufacturer, and his editorial team will be running The Manufacturer Studio live on the show floor capturing video interviews and thought leadership from across the event. “This event brings the whole industry together to discuss some of the most pressing issues facing manufacturers today, from the role of AI to the journey toward net zero. We’re excited to be at the center of these vital conversations.”
Join Us
Last chance to join the leaders of UK Manufacturing, get your tickets now at www.manufacturing-digitalisation.com. Senior manufacturing professionals are encouraged to secure their place early. Space is limited to maintain the quality of dialogue and ensure active engagement in the roundtable format.
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