Shrink wrap machine manufacturer, UWrap, has backed calls from the EEF for more support to be given to innovative British engineers and manufacturers.

According to the EEF, small and medium sized manufacturers in the UK need greater support from government if they’re going to continue to innovate and create products that work towards rebalancing the country’s economy.

The trade body wants Innovate UK, a government agency created with the intention of promoting technological development, to receive more funding. They argue that increasing funding will result in more new products being developed and say that currently small to medium sized business are afraid of risking their money and resources on projects which could fail to become commercially viable.

Chief executive of EEF, Terry Scuoler, said: “It is important for the Government to maintain its focus on areas which drive growth, including measures which support high value investment and innovation.

“Government has created a network of innovation centres which bring industry and universities together as a seed-bed for new ideas and business opportunities. I hope the support for the existing Catapult centres will be enhanced to make sure they stay at the cutting edge of technology and keep Britain at the forefront of manufacturing excellence.”

Last year, the budget for Innovate UK was raised dramatically by the government, from £185m to £600m, but while EEF commend the move they believe that it’s still not enough. In a statement, EEF said: “Public funding reduces the risks associated with innovation and enables catapult centres to focus on less commercial projects that businesses would not be able to do themselves.”

EEF have received report from many in the sector, including UWrap, who agree that greater supporter is needed for engineers and manufacturers. UWrap often follow industry news and research and share their thoughts on relevant topics.

A spokesman for UWrap said: “We definitely agree with the EEF. The more financial support that can be given to engineers and manufacturers to encourage innovation and get the sector strong again, the better. We’d love to see more cutting edge technologies and creative products being manufactured and with more help from the government it’s something not too far away.”

UWrap is one of the UK’s biggest providers of shrink wrap machines, parts and services. They’re based in Blackpool, Lancashire but provide units throughout the country and around the world. Visit www.uwrapmachines.co.uk if you would like to learn more.