As manufacturing businesses across the West Midlands look to strengthen resilience and diversify into high-growth markets, the Supply Chain Transition Programme, delivered by the Supply Smarter Consortium for the West Midlands Investment Zone and the Mayor of the West Midlands’, is providing targeted support to help firms pivot into new supply chains and seize emerging opportunities.
A&M EDM, an award-winning advanced engineering SME based in Smethwick, is one such business who have joined the fully-funded initiative to enable them to access expert support as they explore opportunities within defence and nuclear-related supply chains. Historically focussed on advanced precision engineering, including CNC machining, EDM and toolmaking, the business leaders are actively looking at diversification opportunities and leveraging their advanced manufacturing capabilities to access new markets.
The Supply Chain Transition Programme team spoke to Phil Calcutt, Marketing Director at A&M EDM, about the business and how the programme aligns with their future growth ambitions.
Tell us about A&M EDM and the role it plays within advanced manufacturing in the West Midlands.
A&M Pure Precision is built around solving complex engineering challenges. Customers come to us when precision, quality and responsiveness are essential. We operate the UK’s largest commercial spark and wire erosion capacity, with 36 EDM machines, supported by 39 CNC milling and turning centres, advanced metrology inspection and full design-for-manufacture capability. This breadth allows us to deliver complete, in-house solutions for technically demanding applications.
There is a clear culture of investment in skills within A&M EDM How has this helped the business evolve and grow?
Growth has been driven by a clear commitment to continuous investment and skills development. Since 2021, we have invested many millions of pounds in advanced machinery, digital systems, renewable energy and inspection capability. Alongside this, our apprenticeship programme has trained 26 engineers since 2014, with a further 10 currently in training. This long-term approach ensures we remain agile and competitive while maintaining the highest standards.
What motivated A&M EDM to join the Supply Chain Transition Programme?
We became aware of the programme through Business Growth West Midlands and WMG. Having previously benefited from structured business support, the programme stood out as an opportunity to gain focused insight as we look to transition into new supply chains aligned with regional and national growth priorities.
Which supply chains are you targeting through the Supply Chain Transition Programme, and what makes these markets attractive for the business?
Our focus is on defence and nuclear Small Modular Reactor supply chains. We already manufacture aerospace components with defence applications and have experience relevant to nuclear environments. The programme provides valuable support in understanding how to navigate these complex, highly regulated supply chains more effectively.
Challenges in manufacturing supply chains are a national priority, with the drive towards sustainability. What specific challenges are you hoping the programme will help you to address within A&M EDM and for your buyers?
While we have strong technical capability and recognised certifications, understanding the detailed requirements of new customers and supply chains is critical. The programme helps bridge that gap by providing specialist insight into customer expectations, compliance and route-to-market considerations.
The programme offers a range of specialist support, which areas are delivering the greatest value for A&M EDM right now, and how are they informing business decisions?
Customer insight and the development of a clear, actionable transition plan are priorities. These allow us to align our ongoing investment, R&D and capability development with real market demand.
What skills or organisational capabilities are you aiming to strengthen through the programme as you transition into new sectors?
Strategic planning and market engagement. The programme supports the development of structured three-year action plans, which are essential for successfully transitioning into new sectors while sustaining existing operations.
For SMEs across the West Midlands that are considering diversification or futureproofing their operations, what advice would you give about engaging with the Supply Chain Transition Programme and the value it can offer?
It offers access to experienced, independent specialists who understand advanced manufacturing and supply chains. For businesses looking to diversify, pivot or futureproof their operations, it provides clarity and confidence at an important point in their growth journey.
Looking ahead, A&M EDM remains focused on sustainable growth, innovation and skills development. With industry-leading capability, continuous investment and engagement in programmes such as the Supply Chain Transition Programme, the business is well positioned to adapt to changing markets.
Find out more information and get involved: https://bit.ly/SCTP-EOI.
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