Anderton To Launch Manufacturing Strategy

Minister Of Economic Development To Launch Manufacturing Strategy

Celebrating the significant and growing contribution the manufacturing industry makes to the Wellington Regional economy, Economic Development Minister Jim Anderton will tonight launch Positively Wellington Business’s manufacturing sector strategy at the Wellington Institute of Technology.

The strategy aims to support the growth of design led manufacturers by further developing a cluster model, encouraging private and public sector collaboration, exploring new funding avenues and by identifying impediments to growth in the sector.

Already the Wellington region has carved a strong reputation for its progressive and innovative manufacturing capabilities, companies such as Formway, Interlock, Metallion and Racetech are operating at the forefront of this movement, working very much in the creative arena, establishing strong niche markets and filling international export orders.

“ In supporting these design led industries we are not only supporting the creative talent and creative vision for the region, but also encouraging collaboration between industry, government and educational institutions such as WelTec” says Positively Wellington Business CEO Mr Blair McRae.

“ Already many of the regions manufacturers are competing on a global scale, we want to leverage this skill base and cement Wellington’s reputation as innovators in the manufacturing space”

As part of the newly released strategy Positively Wellington Business has also established a Creative Manufacturing Cluster and a Biotechnology Network. While both are in their embryonic stages PWB sector manager Ron Daly says 70 companies have expressed an active interest in joining the manufacturing cluster group with a potential 25 to join the Biotechnology network. Generally speaking the groups will encourage collaboration between manufacturing companies allowing them to leverage their resources and compete for contracts.

“ From disabled walking aids to fire engines many people are surprised at some of the unique niche markets Wellington manufacturers have cornered, suddenly people are acknowledging the huge contribution this sector brings to our economy, both in terms of dollars and labour skills, we want to help grow this reputation both within NZ and internationally” says Mr Daly.

© Scoop Media