Blog

The skills gap that kills growth

Hidden Cost of In-House 4/12: Technical skill is the lifeblood of any machine builder. But across the sector, that capability is under threat.

From firefighting to forward planning

Hidden Cost of In-House 3/12: For many OEMs, firefighting has become business as usual. But it’s also a major reason why forward planning never quite gets off the ground.

Engineering on hold

Hidden Cost of In-House 2/12: For many OEMs and machine builders, the engineering team is the beating heart of the business. But all too often, that same team is stuck …

Built to spec, held back by capacity

Hidden Cost of In-House 1/12: When a machine builder consistently delivers to spec, it’s easy to assume everything is working as it should. But lurking behind those outward signs of …

Cheers! PP C&A raises EBar’s manufacturing capability with new deal

The West Yorkshire company behind the fastest growing automated self-serve drink solutions in the UK is ramping up production after extending its manufacturing partnership with PP Control & Automation.

AI at the core of industrial innovation and the next big disruption

The fourth industrial revolution has a new engine and manufacturing is on the cusp of its most transformative era since the invention of the assembly line.

PP C&A host ‘Greener Future’ event in collaboration with Schneider Electric

[POSTPONED] To highlight the ESG imperative and real-world success cases, PP Control & Automation (PP C&A) in collaboration with Schneider Electric, will be hosting manufacturing professionals at its award-winning facility …

CEO reaction as government launches new Industrial Strategy

On 23 June 2025, the UK government unveiled a landmark ten‑year Industrial Strategy designed to drive sustainable economic growth, boost investment, and create over 1.1 million skilled jobs.

Design & Make Challenge will address industry’s recent difficulties and its persistent obstacles in a bid to build UK manufacturing competitiveness

There is no escaping the current economic challenges piling up for UK manufacturers, and alongside long-fought growing pains, there’s a heightened need for positive action according to the seven SMEs …

Pragmatically adaptive strategy is underway | Part 3: What’s so puzzling about productivity?

Andy Whittaker, Director (General Manager) at PP Control & Automation, responds to the findings of the Make UK Executive Survey by addressing productivity in the current climate of rising operational …

PP Control & Automation backs Newport Girls’ High School for national Young Enterprise success

One of the UK’s leading strategic manufacturing outsourcing specialists has thrown its support behind a Shropshire school vying for national honours.

Shockproof supply chains

Recent history has been defined by turbulence and supply chains have become the front line of disruption. These shocks have acted as both a warning and a wake-up call.

Pragmatically adaptive strategy is underway | Part 2: Seizing new ground

In the second of a series of responses to Make UK’s Executive Survey, PP Control & Automation’s Richard Spears reveals that manufacturers need to establish new trust in marketers, and …

ESG committee established and credentials recognised

As part of its ongoing commitment to responsible and sustainable business practices, PP C&A has officially established an ESG Committee and has been recognised for its Societal Impact.

Express & Star exclusive: If we make the right decisions, why shouldn’t we be optimistic?

In a candid interview with the Express & Star, Tony Hague, CEO of PP Control & Automation, offers a compelling perspective on the future of UK manufacturing. Whilst acknowledging the …