Hidden Factory

A carnival atmosphere among UK manufacturers, our factories celebrating giving their international rivals a drubbing... these things are not supposed to be happening. Right now, Joe and Jane Public have BAE job cuts and subsequent laments on the terminal decline of British industry ringing in their ears. Don't believe the hype. The reality, as those lucky enough to attend the awards will testify, is far more encouraging. Of course, that's not to downplay the difficult future facing BAE workers, but there remains an elite core of domestic manufacturers who, despite the harsh global economic conditions, continue to thrive. Britain's newly crowned Factory of the Year, Parker Hannifin Manufacturing of Birtley, is a fine example. The filtration solutions manufacturer is a triumph of understated excellence and has used its aptly named 'Win' strategy to drive better customer service, financial performance and profitable growth. The momentum comes from the shopfloor, where empowerment drives performance-enhancing changes. Parker Hannifin is just one example of a best practice revolution. On the morning of the Best Factory finals, a panel of former winners mused on the secrets of manufacturing excellence. All agreed it's a clever cocktail of clear strategy, good communication and the courage to delegate decision making downwards. These revelations may come as a shock to the masses. Images on the news of angry BAE workers lambasting senior management serve to reinforce the misconception of an antiquated us-and-them culture inside the factory gates. The Best Factory Class of 2011 shows nothing could be further from the truth. If only a minister or national newspaper editor accepts their Best Factory Award invite next year, they might just see for themselves.