TMS Managing Director Alex Lowe was delighted to be invited to attend the official opening of the groundbreaking, world-class flagship facility, the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS) on 21st June 2023.

Scotland's First Minister, Humza Yousaf, formally opened the new flagship building and attendees had the opportunity to tour the distinctive heather coloured building and see first-hand the development of the Digital Factory at NMIS and Manufacturing Skills Academy at NMIS.

Located in the heart of the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District Scotland (AMIDS) in Renfrewshire it will support manufacturing, engineering and associated technology businesses.

It's home to Manufacturing Skills Academy at NMIS, a fully connected Digital Factory at NMIS, which features a variety of technology zones dedicated to growth areas, as well as a collaboration hub. Additionally, the Lightweight Manufacturing Centre at NMIS will relocate to the new facility, splitting its operations between it and the University of Strathclyde's Advanced Forming Research Centre (AFRC).

First Minister, Humza Yousaf said:

“The opening of the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS) is an exciting moment – it will ensure that Scotland’s long history of innovation and engineering continues, and also support our drive to net zero. Scotland is one of the most innovative nations in the world. By bringing together research, industry and the public sector, this facility will allow companies of all sizes to embrace creative manufacturing techniques and support cutting edge research. Manufacturing is critical to our long-term economic recovery and this centre, which the Scottish Government provided funding of £75 million towards, will support that.”

The operationally carbon neutral campus will support manufacturing, engineering and technology businesses in Scotland, the UK and beyond to innovate and boost productivity, which will grow our economy, develop a vibrant workforce, and create happier, healthier, and greener communities.

Speaking after the event Alex Lowe added:

“We look forward to supporting NMIS in the coming years.  With TMS being one of the first industry sponsors of the Advanced Forming Research Centre (AFRC), it’s been heartening to have watched this new state of the art facility take shape, and now finally, for it to have become a reality is a magnificent achievement for all involved.”