A new conference has been launched which looks to promote growth in Advanced Manufacturing Materials and Engineering (AMME) across Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon.

The inaugural AMME Conference will welcome businesses within the sector to hear best practice, expert advice and be directed on the support available to maximise all the potential opportunities for growth.

Currently the Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council employs 7,000 people within advanced manufacturing, some at major businesses like Hyster-Yale, Moy Park, Thompson Aerospace, Almac, Kingspan, Sam Engineering (JW Kane) and JF McKenna.

The event will take place at Armagh City Hotel on Tuesday 31 March. It will showcase how the economic potential of this key priority sector for the Borough will develop in the next few years and how 'growth deal' plans will advance the sector. It will also demonstrate that businesses in the Borough are making significant steps to grow their business, create jobs and help grow the economy.

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Throughout the day businesses will hear from a range of expert speakers who will provide invaluable knowledge and insights as well as signpost the opportunities available to support business growth. Hosted by business broadcaster Jamie Delargy, speakers include representatives from Manufacturing NI, Queen's University Belfast, Invest NI, Digital Catapult Centre, and more.

Launching the AMME Conference Lord Mayor of ABC, Councillor Mealla Campbell said: "I am delighted to officially launch our inaugural Advanced Manufacturing Materials and Engineering Conference (AMME). Economic growth is a key priority for Council and this Conference will highlight the importance of this sector and the support available to businesses in the Borough. It is a unique opportunity to hear from businesses who will share their journey from where it all started to where they are today. There will be experts from across the sector who can advise on support, funding and opportunities that are on offer to help 'Grow your Business'. If you work or plan to work in the AMME sector this Conference is essential and will be a great opportunity for networking and forming excellent relationships for the future."

This event is also part of the Council's commitment to manufacturing month.

Stephen Kelly, Chief Executive Manufacturing NI, commented: "Manufacturing is changing through choice and necessity. Those who stand still will be left behind as competitors at home and abroad strive to be more productive and relevant for customers. It is with that background that Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Council should be congratulated for taking the lead and helping inspire and prepare their local businesses to meet this challenge. We would encourage manufacturers of all sizes to come along, learn and ask questions."

(CM/JG)