We’re pleased to share three new videos featuring expert insights from across our EMN network, covering key topics that are currently impacting engineering and manufacturing businesses.

Our first session focuses on the Employment Rights Act 2025, with Lauren Bathan from Jackson Hogg outlining the key changes employers need to be aware of. From updates to unfair dismissal rules and statutory sick pay to wider implications for recruitment and management practices, this session offers a clear overview of how businesses can prepare for upcoming legislative changes.

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Our second video Rebecca McColl from Johnston Carmichael explores the evolving landscape of R&D tax credits, including recent reforms and what they mean for claims going forward. The session also introduces the Patent Box regime, highlighting additional opportunities for businesses to benefit from innovation through reduced corporation tax.

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Finally, Colin Donohoe from Lockton Insurance provides an update on the insurance market, highlighting continued softening in 2026 and what this means for premiums, renewals, and potential savings. The discussion offers practical advice on how businesses can approach their insurance strategy and ensure they are getting the best value in the current climate.

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Together, these three conversations provide valuable, practical guidance to help EMN members stay informed, compliant, and competitive in a changing business environment.

The post New EMN Video Series: Key Updates for Engineering & Manufacturing Businesses appeared first on The Engineering & Manufacturing Network.

Samantha Vassallo, Managing Director of Horizon Works.

Industrial marketing company Horizon Works is proud to announce the next evolution of its innovation-focused podcast, Invented, with a new, expanded series set to launch in April 2026.

The refreshed programme will feature more frequent episodes and a broader national reach, shining a spotlight on the UK’s most exciting innovators, engineers, scientists, and technology leaders.

Invented was created to give pioneering organisations and individuals a platform to share the ideas, technologies, and breakthroughs shaping the future. Each episode offers listeners an inside look at the challenges, opportunities, and creative thinking driving progress across advanced industries — from offshore wind and subsea engineering to biotechnology, space and digital innovation.

Since its launch, Invented has welcomed a diverse range of trailblazers whose work is transforming their sectors:

• Paul Davison, Deputy CEO of SMD — Discussing world‑leading subsea engineering and the global impact of North East innovation.
• Dr Andrew Jenkins, CEO and Founder of Kinewell Energy — Exploring how AI‑driven optimisation is reducing the cost of offshore wind.
• Ian Armstrong, Managing Director of Pulcea — Sharing insights into the development of noise mitigating technology to protect marine life from the effects of construction noise.
• Professor Mark Birch‑Machin and Jonathan Brookes of Skin Life Analytics — Revealing how advanced diagnostics are ‘making the invisible, visible’ in skin health.
• Ralph ‘Dinz’ Dinsley, Founder of 3S Northumbria — Opening up the world of space situational awareness and orbital safety.
• Jurek Kozyra, Founder of Nanovery — Introducing the potential of DNA nanorobots in medicine.

These conversations have helped establish Invented as a trusted voice in the innovation landscape, showcasing the ingenuity and ambition found across the UK.

Invented podcast guest Ian Armstrong, Managing Director of Pulcea, said: “Being invited by Horizon Works to participate in their Invented podcast proved to be a fascinating and beneficial experience.

“Their professional approach made it all the more enjoyable and it is always rewarding to meet a new contact and be greeted with the words, ‘I listened to your Invented podcast and found it to be extremely informative & helpful preparation’.”

The upcoming 2026 series marks a significant step forward for the podcast. Horizon Works will broaden its focus to include innovators from across the country, delivering richer insights and more frequent episodes to meet growing audience demand.

Samantha Vassallo, founder of Horizon Works and Invented said: “I founded Invented because I’m genuinely inspired by the people pushing boundaries. I wanted to build a platform that celebrates the brilliant minds pushing boundaries across the UK and gives them the space to tell the stories that often go unheard.

“This next chapter gives us the chance to celebrate even more innovators from across the UK — and I can’t wait to share their stories.”

Horizon Works is now inviting innovators, founders, researchers, and industry leaders to take part in the new series. Those with a compelling story, breakthrough technology, or bold vision for the future are encouraged to get in touch and be part of the next wave of Invented.

Established in 2010 and based in Blyth, Northumberland, Horizon Works helps companies to expand, diversify, reach international markets, gain strategic focus, reinvigorate their brands and re-energise their marketing.

The company delivers services across marketing strategy, design, PR, content, social media and web and digital, and works in sectors including advanced manufacturing; precision engineering; automotive; renewables; defence; and industrial technology.

To express interest in Invented or discuss how you can get involved in the podcast, contact Horizon Works on hello@horizon-works.com.

To find out more about Invented and view earlier episodes, visit horizonworks.co.uk/invented-podcast

The post Horizon Works Announces New National Series of Invented Podcast appeared first on The Engineering & Manufacturing Network.

Leading UK accountancy and business advisory firm Johnston Carmichael has strengthened its Newcastle office with the appointment of Gemma Gibson as Audit Partner. Gemma joins the firm following continued investment in the North East and the rapid growth of its Newcastle team.

Gemma joins from a Big Four firm, bringing almost 20 years’ experience having progressed from graduate trainee through to Senior Audit Director. During her career, she has led audits for large, complex groups and supported the growth of medium-sized and large private businesses across a broad range of sectors.

In her new role, Gemma will take the lead on audit in Newcastle, signing off audits from the office and playing a key role in new client engagement as the firm continues to expand. She also brings strong cross-sector expertise in property, construction and manufacturing, as well as significant experience working with private equity-backed businesses and organisations operating in the oil and gas sector.

Gemma has supported businesses through a range of transactions, including AIM listings, delistings and acquisitions, giving her valuable insight into the challenges and opportunities facing ambitious businesses across the North East.

Commenting on her appointment, Gemma said: “The whole proposition for the Newcastle office really excited me, and I was genuinely inspired by the experience and enthusiasm within the team. Becoming a Partner at Johnston Carmichael is an opportunity to help lead the business, and with the Newcastle office continuing to thrive, the chance to be part of building something that lasts – and to leave a legacy – really resonated with me. I’m looking forward to working alongside businesses across the region, helping them to grow and succeed.”

Paul Shields, Partner and Head of Johnston Carmichael’s Newcastle office, added: “It’s fantastic to welcome Gemma to the team. Her appointment is a significant milestone for our Newcastle office, as she brings exceptional audit experience, strong leadership credentials and a deep understanding of the regional market. As we continue to build momentum in the North East, Gemma will play a key role in strengthening our offering and supporting our clients’ long-term ambitions.”

Johnston Carmichael’s Newcastle office has seen significant growth over recent months, with the team now comprising 25 people following its office expansion. The investment highlights the firm’s long-term commitment to the North East and to supporting clients across the region.

The post JOHNSTON CARMICHAEL APPOINTS AUDIT PARTNER TO SUPPORT NEWCASTLE GROWTH appeared first on The Engineering & Manufacturing Network.

Trade shows and expos remain some of the most powerful opportunities for companies to connect with buyers, showcase innovation, and build meaningful relationships.

But simply turning up and hoping to come away with a host of hot leads isn’t enough. With competition fiercer than ever, success comes from strategic planning before, during, and after the event.

Industrial marketing specialist and EMN affiliate partner Horizon Works offers advice on how to maximise your presence and turn foot traffic into real business growth.

1. Build momentum before you arrive

Your trade show impact starts long before the doors open. Smart pre-event marketing ensures people know who you are, where you’ll be, and why they should visit your stand.

• Announce your attendance early. Share your presence across social media, email newsletters, and your website – for instance on a home page banner or news section.
• Create a compelling reason to visit. Think exclusive demos, giveaways, early access to new products, launches or announcements.
• Use event hashtags and tag organisers into social media posts. This will broaden your reach and help you tap into events’ audiences.
• Reach out directly to key prospects. Book meetings in advance. A full calendar means you’re already winning before the event begins.
• Collaborate with partners and network organisations. They can help you amplify your reach and make key personal introductions – they can do some of the hard work for you!

Make your exhibition stand a destination people plan to visit, not one they stumble across!

2. Make the most of your exhibition stand

Your exhibition stand is your stage — and in 2026, visitors expect more than brochures and a branded tablecloth.

• Design for visibility. Clear signage, bold visuals, a strong message, a well-defined proposition… and of course, lighting that stands out… will help you rise above the noise. Event halls are often busy and crowded: your stand needs to shine.
• Create interactive experiences. Touchscreens, VR and AR demos, product trials, or live mini‑sessions will keep people engaged for longer – which means more time to build a rapport with prospects
• Train your team. Friendly, proactive and knowledgeable staff who know how to start conversations and qualify visitors make all the difference. Ensure that your team can answer technical questions if the need arises.
• Keep it open and inviting. Avoid barriers like high counters or cluttered layouts, and create a welcoming environment.
• Use smart tech. QR codes, digital brochures and lead‑capture apps streamline the experience and reduce friction. Your key information will get into delegates’ hands more rapidly.

A booth that feels energetic, purposeful and easy to navigate naturally attracts more visitors.

3. Turning visitors into leads that convert

Traffic is great — but conversions are what matter. Turning visitors into qualified leads requires intention.

• Have a clear lead‑capture process. Whether it’s scanning badges or using a digital form on a device, make it quick and consistent.
• Ask the right questions. A few targeted qualifiers help you prioritise follow-ups.
• Offer value in exchange for details. Think downloadable guides, exclusive discounts, or entry into a prize draw.
• Follow up fast. The first 48 hours after the event are crucial. Personalised messages referencing your conversation stand out: these could be done on email or via LinkedIn.
• Nurture, don’t just sell. Use email sequences, content and check-ins to build trust over time.

The aim is to turn a brief exhibition stand interaction into a long‑term relationship.

The bottom line…

Maximising your presence at trade shows in 2026 is all about strategy: promote early, design an exhibition stand that draws people in, and have a clear plan for turning interest into opportunity. When you combine preparation with creativity and strong follow-up, trade shows become one of the most valuable investments your business can make.

Here’s how Horizon Works can help

Horizon Works has helped many clients, including EMN members, to maximise their presence at trade shows by helping them every step of the way, from strategy and planning through to promotion and marketing. We can support you with:

• Event strategy and planning
• Exhibition stand and booth design
• Messaging and creative ideas
• Brochure and presentation design
• Social media pre, post and at the event
• Animation and video content
• Business development support
• Content marketing
• E-marketing

Horizon Works accelerates growth for technical companies in complex sectors with energetic, impactful marketing. Established in 2010 and based in Blyth, Northumberland, we have a proven track record of delivering industrial marketing solutions that resonate on a global scale.

We specialise in sectors including defence, precision engineering, advanced manufacturing, automotive, renewable energy and industrial technology, and our marketing is reinforced by in-depth industry knowledge.

Drawing from a wide range of disciplines, we help companies to expand, diversify, reach international markets, gain strategic focus, reinvigorate their brands and re-energise their marketing.

Our services include strategy and brand development, design, animation, content marketing, public relations, website design and development, SEO and social media.

For more information, visit www.horizon-works.com  or email hello@horizon-works.com

The post Horizon Works: Maximising your presence at trade shows and exhibitions in 2026 appeared first on The Engineering & Manufacturing Network.

How do you handle design files, customer data or other sensitive information in your business? ISO 27001 provides a clear, internationally recognised way to put structure around how that information is protected — and to demonstrate this to customers, buyers and auditors.

Through our partnership with Citation, EMN members can access a fast, supportive route to ISO 27001 certification, with preferential rates and expert guidance throughout. Citation carries out a full gap analysis and helps put an information security management system in place that fits your business. With their support, certification could take as little as 45 days.

Once you’re certified, Atlas is a user-friendly platform that helps you stay on top of everything. It gives you a simple way to manage your ISO 27001 certification online, with expert telephone and online support, templates, and ongoing training. Annual recertification audits are included in the cost, helping you keep your certification current and giving customers continued confidence that your information security is being maintained.

Why ISO 27001 matters to your business

ISO 27001 is the internationally recognised Standard for managing information security.

It helps you to:

• Protect sensitive information and intellectual property using a structured, risk-based approach
• Meet customer, tender and audit requirements with an internationally recognised certification
• Support compliance with data protection and information security obligations, including customer, contractual and regulatory expectations
• Define clear policies, roles and governance, so information security isn’t left to chance
• Strengthen access controls and incident management, with documented processes that support continual improvement

For many engineering and manufacturing firms, it also removes friction when bidding for work and reassures customers that data is handled properly.

Access your EMN member discount

EMN members benefit from preferential rates and a fast, supportive route to ISO 27001, with the option to pursue other key standards too – including ISO 9001, 14001, 45001 and the new AI 42001 via Citation. To get started, click here and quote ‘EMN’ to access your preferential rates off a new client contract and learn how to strengthen your information security and compliance.

The post Citation: A fast, supportive route to ISO 27001 for EMN members appeared first on The Engineering & Manufacturing Network.

As an employer, staying on top of key HR, payroll, tax and compliance dates is essential – especially with multiple changes arriving throughout 2026.

To help, our Service Provider Member Citation, has created a FREE 2026 business timeline covering the key dates employers need to know across the year, all in one simple download.

It includes reminders for key milestones across payroll, statutory pay, HMRC reporting, employment law changes and Companies House updates — helping you plan ahead with confidence.

Download your timeline here: https://tinyurl.com/7kab5m4v

Citation’s HR and Employment Law experts support thousands of UK businesses to stay compliant, reduce risk, and save time so you can focus on running your business confidently. Call 0345 844 1111 or click here to learn more. Don’t forget to mention ‘Engineering & Manufacturers Network’ to access your preferential rates!

The post Citation: 2026 business timeline for your members appeared first on The Engineering & Manufacturing Network.

A thriving team is shaped by the culture you create, the support you offer, and the processes you put in place. When wellbeing is strong, businesses benefit from happier people, better productivity, and lower absence. When it’s not, they risk burnout, higher turnover, and low morale.

That’s why our Service Provider Member, Citation, has created a FREE Employee Wellbeing Checklist to help you spot your strengths, identify any gaps, and put practical improvements in place.

With this checklist, you’ll be able to review:

• Work-life balance and flexibility
• Mental health and emotional support
• Managing leave and absences
• Professional growth and development
• Work culture and communication
• Leadership confidence and consistency

Download your checklist here: https://tinyurl.com/yvhbfn8v

Citation’s HR and Employment Law experts support thousands of UK businesses to stay compliant, reduce risk, and save time so you can focus on running your business confidently. Call 0345 844 1111 or click here to learn more. Don’t forget to mention ‘Engineering & Manufacturers Network’ to access your preferential rates!

The post Citation: Employee Wellbeing Checklist appeared first on The Engineering & Manufacturing Network.

How well is your marketing set up for accelerating growth in 2026? Does your business have the strategy and tools in place to support expansion, diversification and recruitment? Or are you facing the New Year with inconsistent marketing assets and underperforming tactics?

Samantha Vassallo, Managing Director of industrial marketing specialist and EMN Affiliate Horizon Works, is here to help engineering and manufacturing companies take stock and take action, as the New Year looms…

Measure your marketing

Have you been measuring your marketing through 2025? Do you know if (and how) it’s making an impact?

Now is the time to review how your marketing activities have performed over the last 12 months. Website engagement and enquiries, SEO, social media engagement, trade shows, media coverage, advertising performance, e-marketing, network engagement and PPC should all be under the microscope.

What could you invest more into – and what needs a rethink?

Plan ahead

What are your objectives for 2026? And do you have a marketing strategy in place to help you achieve them?

It’s crucial to have a focused, tailored strategy which underpins your marketing activities – and provides the foundations for success. Without a marketing roadmap to guide you, your activities could become piecemeal, inconsistent and ineffective.

Focus on your brand

Going into the New Year, does your brand truly represent your business’s purpose, beliefs and values?

Is your brand ingrained into your company’s narrative, communications, visual identity, marketing activities and community relations?

Your brand should resonate with customers, staff and stakeholders. If it doesn’t, then it’s time to act – and reinvigorate your brand.

Is your website fit for purpose?

Does your website give prospects confidence in your capabilities as an engineering or manufacturing company? Does it make a strong visual impact, convey your USPs – and make people want to work with you? Or is letting you down with irrelevant content, poor functionality and an outdated design, that isn’t showing your business in its best light?

If it’s the latter, then a website revamp should be a priority for 2026…

Getting prepped…

Heading into the New Year, it’s useful to do a ‘stock take’ of your marketing assets and capabilities and ask:

What will our business development and sales teams need in 2026?

• This could include high-impact sales decks, data sheets, case studies, exhibition materials, brochures, corporate films, product/process animations and even merchandise.

What campaigns are we running next year? And do we have the assets to support them?

• Consider the visual identity of each campaign, and plan out social media content, e-marketing, advertising, PPC, video, and animation. Public relations will also have a part to play, to amplify your messages and position your business as a leader.

Face to face

Do you have an event plan in place, or are you going to take each month as it comes?

It’s easy to see your marketing budget drained away by exhibiting at trade shows and expos that don’t fully align with your business objectives. The costs of travel, accommodation and of course, stand space, will soon add up.

So think strategically for 2026. Draw up a wishlist of expos, conferences and networking events, based on their audience data, and the potential for lead generation and profile raising. Research the marketing add-ons they provide. Consider sponsorship and speaking opportunities. And then map these events out into a plan shaped to maximise ROI.

Get the most out of EMN!

As a EMN member, you have the opportunity to connect with a vibrant and collaborative engineering and manufacturing community, and showcase your business to potential customers, partners and employees.

So in 2026…

• Engage with EMN on LinkedIn via the company page linkedin.com/company/engineeringmanufacturingnetwork – share posts, contribute to the community, support new announcements and help to spread good news.
• Send your company news to EMN – it will feature on the website and on social media, helping your business reach a wider audience
• Worked with another EMN member? Consider a collaboration story to show the strength of membership.
• Ensure you attend EMN events – and be ready to follow up with the new contacts you make.

Need support in reviewing and reshaping your marketing for 2026?

Contact Horizon Works at www.horizon-works.com, email hello@horizon-works.com or call 0345 075 5955.

Headquartered in Blyth, Horizon Works helps technical companies succeed in complex sectors such as advanced manufacturing, precision engineering, renewable energy, defence, industrial technology and automotive.

The company has a proven track record of delivering industrial marketing solutions that resonate on a global scale and its marketing is reinforced by in-depth industry knowledge.

Horizon Works’s capabilities cover strategy, creative, PR, content, social media, and web & digital.

The post Horizon Works: Review and revitalise – the marketing guide for 2026 appeared first on The Engineering & Manufacturing Network.

Johnston Carmichael’s tax experts have advised that everyone, from working people to pensioners, will contribute following the UK’s Autumn Budget – with businesses bearing the brunt.

Following weeks of speculation, Chancellor Rachel Reeves unveiled her Budget amid further disarray after the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) published its report early in error.

The Budget is set to raise almost £26bn and included specific funds for devolved governments, with an additional £370m for the Northern Ireland executive, £505m for the Welsh Government and £820m for the Scottish Government.

 Alex Docherty, Partner and Head of Private Client Tax, said: “The Chancellor said everyone would contribute – and they will.

“The National Minimum Wage is rising, providing a helping hand to the lowest paid, but many other working individuals will pay more income tax as a result of the three-year freeze and at the same time will pay National Insurance Contributions in due course on salary sacrifice pension contributions over £2,000. This also impacts employers – it is suspected that many businesses will lower the amount they pay into retirement funds.”

The introduction of a £2,000 annual cap on relief for pension salary sacrifice represents the second largest revenue raising measure announced in the Autumn Budget. It’s estimated to raise around £4.7bn, second only to the additional revenue generated by the freezing of income tax thresholds out to 2030/31.

Alex questioned growing taxes on business owners seeking to exit their businesses as part of succession planning.

She said: “Even though there were hopes the inheritance tax-free £1m allowance for trading businesses would rise, the changes coming into play for IHT that were announced last year remain largely unchanged, and Employee Ownership Trust relief is being slashed by half; who should owners pass their business on to now and how much will they have to pass on as taxes increase?”

While the pension triple lock has been protected, Alex said that pensioners will also pay their way.

She said: “Those who have retired will pay more tax on their savings and if based in England, could also be hit by the mansion tax if they are sitting on high value properties. We’ll see in January if Scotland will follow suit. The property market is also likely to be disrupted by the 2% increase in property income tax rates from 6 April 2027.

“The Chancellor faced tough choices to balance the books – but it will be tough to get both the working people she promised to protect and businesses behind her Budget.”

Johnston Carmichael’s tax specialists are hosting a webinar on 3 December. Alex Docherty will be joined by John McAuslin, Partner and Head of Corporate Tax and David Ward, Partner and Head of Specialist Taxes, as they delve into the detail behind the headlines.

For additional analysis of the 2025 Autumn Budget, visit our Budget Hub.

The post Johnston Carmichael tax experts count the cost of the UK’s Autumn Budget appeared first on The Engineering & Manufacturing Network.

The HSE has released its latest Annual Manufacturing Sector Statistics, covering data up to March 2025 and the findings highlight continuing pressures on health, safety and wellbeing across manufacturing and engineering environments. Key insights include:

• 101,000 manufacturing workers reported work-related ill health
• Musculoskeletal disorders (37%) and work-related stress, depression or anxiety (43%) remain the most significant contributors to ill health
• 55,000 workers experienced a non-fatal workplace injury across 2022/23–2024/25
• The sector continues to face a substantial financial burden, with £1.7 billion attributed to work-related ill health and injury in 2023/24 alone

These figures reinforce the importance of proactive risk management, robust safety practices, and strong organisational support, especially in high-hazard sectors like manufacturing and engineering.

How Citation can help

Citation is EMN’s Affiliate Partner for Standards, Accreditation, Health & Safety & Quality. With a team of over 150 Health & Safety consultants, Citation works daily with businesses across manufacturing and engineering, helping them reduce risk, boost compliance, and protect their workforce.

As an EMN member, you can access preferential rates on a comprehensive range of Health & Safety services, including:

• Annual and ad-hoc site inspections
• Specialist risk assessments (air, noise, vibration, COSHH, DSEAR and more)
• Policy development and documentation support
• CPD-certified Health & Safety eLearning
• ISO 45001 readiness and audit preparation
• Guidance on accident and incident reporting

Click here to access your preferential rates on a new client contract and remember to quote “EMN” to receive your exclusive member discount.

The post HSE publishes its latest annual manufacturing sector statistics appeared first on The Engineering & Manufacturing Network.