Welcome back Smart Manufacturing Solutions Technology Ltd – our Drinks Sponsor for the North East Automotive Expo 2026

Smart Manufacturing Solutions Technology Ltd (SMS Technology) is a UK-based technology company dedicated to helping manufacturers digitise, streamline, and strengthen their operational processes. Specialising in configurable manufacturing software solutions, the company enables organisations to improve traceability, quality management, compliance, and operational visibility across complex production environments.

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New College Durham and Weardale Lithium Announce Partnership to Accelerate North East Lithium Battery Skills and Innovation

Building on its recent recognition as one of four Advanced Manufacturing Technical Excellence Colleges across the nation, New College Durham (NCD) is proud to announce a strategic partnership with Weardale Lithium aimed at strengthening the North East’s emerging lithium battery and clean energy sector.

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The IMI achieves success for automotive sector in ONS SOC code consultation

Following its submission to the ONS review of SIC/SOC codes relating to the automotive sector, the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) has achieved some early success. The ONS has agreed to update the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) system to better reflect the technical expertise of roles within the modern automotive workforce.

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