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Manufacturing and engineering businesses from across Kent & Medway came together at Hempstead House Hotel on 29th July for the latest meeting of the Kent & Medway Manufacturing Focus Group (KMFG), with sustainability and net zero taking centre stage. The event brought together employers, education providers and sector stakeholders to explore how sustainability is becoming an increasingly important business priority for manufacturers.
The headline session was led by Rob Robinson, Sustainable Business & Circular Economy Programme Manager at Kent County Council, and Richard Izzard, Senior Circular Economy Officer at Kent County Council, who shared practical insights into sustainability, circular economy principles and opportunities for businesses to reduce costs, improve resilience and strengthen competitiveness.
Throughout the session, delegates explored how sustainability affects organisations economically, environmentally and socially. Discussions highlighted growing customer and supply chain expectations, increasing regulatory requirements, rising energy costs and the commercial advantages that can come from sustainable innovation and resource efficiency. A key message was that sustainability is no longer simply a desirable addition to business operations but an increasingly important driver of long-term success.
Examples of local businesses already taking action were shared, demonstrating how investment in energy efficiency, renewable technologies and automation can deliver both environmental and commercial benefits. Delegates also explored practical approaches to biodiversity enhancement, improving air quality, reducing waste and adopting circular economy principles that keep resources in use for longer and minimise environmental impact.
Attendees were introduced to a range of support available to help organisations begin or accelerate their sustainability journey, including the Kent Sustainable Business Toolkit and information on grants, loans and business support available through the Kent and Medway Growth Hub.
The meeting also provided an opportunity for Camilla Maurice, LSIP Project Manager at Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, to present an update on the newly published Kent & Medway Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) and the priorities identified for the manufacturing and engineering sector.
The update highlighted the need to strengthen work-readiness, expand opportunities for apprenticeships and placements, develop higher technical skills and support businesses as they adopt digital, automation and low-carbon technologies. It also reinforced the important role employers play in shaping future training provision and ensuring education responds to evolving industry needs.
As manufacturing businesses continue to balance productivity, workforce development and environmental responsibilities, the event demonstrated the growing links between sustainability, innovation and skills. Through KMFG, employers continue to play a vital role in shaping the future direction of both the sector and the skills system across Kent & Medway.
Our next KMFG is a visit to Balfour Winery with a guided tour of their vineyards, orchards and woodlands and a special focus on their manufacturing and irrigation systems. Taking place on Wednesday 26th August from 10am-12pm, places are free and can be booked here.
