PwC is Associate Sponsor for Industry 4.0 Summit & Expo

UK manufacturers must adapt to change and swiftly embrace the challenges and opportunities that digital transformation can bring if they are to grow their competitive advantage against nations that have proved more digitally agile in recent years. As Darren Jukes, PwC's UK Industrial Manufacturing and Services leader explains: "We recognise that the future of manufacturing is changing rapidly, with new technologies, a focus on the digital age and AI implementation just around the corner. But there is also a real risk that if UK firms don't pick up the pace, they could find themselves outmanoeuvred by digital champions in other territories.

"Building a culture that is not only relevant to today's workforce and environment but supports the company's strategic direction, performance and operations is crucial. We are aware with technology continuing to rapidly evolve, choosing what to invest in and when can be a daunting prospect for some businesses which is why events such as next year's Industry 4.0 Summit and Expo in Manchester are important. They give business leaders the opportunity to speak to industry experts, sector peers and consultants, such as ourselves, on the practicalities of digitally transforming their organisations."

Event organiser Gary Gilmour comments: "It really is fantastic to get the endorsement of a great company like PwC. They have impressed upon us their support for UK manufacturers and how they are keen to meet companies, large and small, at our event and provide them with the support, knowledge and guidance to help them with their digital transformation."

PwC will have an exhibition stand at the expo and sponsor a key feature area where companies can meet with PwC specialists and get advice on a number of areas to help with their growth & expansion as well as industry 4.0 & digital transformation. PwC will also be running a number of round tables at the show where they will look to bring companies large and small together, and foster dialogue on various issues facing manufacturers.

For 2020 the organisers expect to attract 400 delegates, 80 speakers, 100 exhibitors and 2,500 trade show attendees to see the latest technologies from automation, robotics, 3D printing, big data, artificial intelligence, sensors, virtual & augmented reality and 5G plus other intelligent systems to make manufacturing smarter.

For more information on how PwC can help your manufacturing, visit their website at www.pwc.co.uk/manufacturing, and go to www.gbmediaevents.com for further event information.