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Rutland Plastics partners with Made Smarter

1 min read

To strengthen its commitment to Industry 4.0, Rutland Plastics joins Made Smarter, a national movement backed by the UK government aimed at empowering the growth of UK SME manufacturers by accessing technology and digital skills.

As part of the partnership, Rutland Plastics participated in a digital transformation workshop, which resulted in the development of a digital transformation strategy, review and roadmap. The conclusion of the review can be found below - needless to say, we're pleased that our efforts over the past few years have been recognised, but there is always more to do.

Rutland Plastics, has been developing its Industry 4.0 plan for a few years now. Implementing Industry 4.0 technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and advanced robotics has enabled the company to optimise the production processes. By automating repetitive tasks through the use of cobots, for example, has allowed Rutland Plastics to streamline its operations too. 

However, Industry 4.0 is not just about adopting new technologies; it's also about fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement. Remote monitoring and control capabilities enable the company to manage operations remotely, further enhancing efficiency and flexibility.

Furthermore, Industry 4.0 technologies support sustainable manufacturing practices by optimising resource utilisation, reducing waste, and minimising environmental impact. By embracing sustainability as a core value, Rutland Plastics believes it can help to future-proof its businesses and contribute to a more resilient and sustainable economy.

A spokesperson from Made Smarter said in the readiness review: ‘’Rutland Plastics has distinguished itself in digital transformation, achieving an impressive score of 7 on the PAS1040 digital maturity scale, which is a close representation of reality. This score reflects their near-optimal integration of digital technologies across their operations, from advanced automation in their production lines to the implementation of sophisticated data analytics for predictive maintenance and quality control."

"Despite this high level of digital sophistication, Rutland Plastics remains committed to continuous improvement, seeking out the latest innovations in smart manufacturing and Industry 4.0 technologies. Their journey has not only enhanced operational efficiency and product quality but also significantly reduced environmental impact through optimised resource use and waste reduction. By prioritising investment in cutting-edge technologies and fostering a culture of innovation, they not only set a benchmark for the industry but also demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to embracing the potential of digital advancements for sustainable growth and competitiveness.’’