MPA Group

Modular construction is the process where building components are produced in a factory, before being transported to the site for assembly. The pieces arrive already finished, minimising the amount of technical work required onsite.

The engineering and technology worlds never stand still; in fact, their rates of progress only seem to increase with each passing year. From 3D-printed houses to cashier-free shops, 2018 saw some incredible technological advances, and the next year promises to continue this path of innovation. Here innovation funding specialists MPA Group, who will be at this year’s Advanced Engineering event, run through some of the major innovation trends to look out for and the companies who are leading the way.

Brexit will undoubtedly affect life in the UK in several ways. The nature and extent of its impact, however, is anyone’s guess. Regarding research and innovation, on the surface not much should change. The R&D Tax Credit Scheme is a government initiative and while it is subject to European Union rules, ultimately the money is provided by HMRC, so the amount of funding available for creative pursuits should not be affected.

Despite years of uncertainty and widespread scepticism, the UK manufacturing industry is still a force on the world stage. According to The Manufacturer, the UK is the eighth largest industrial nation in the world and is predicted to make the top five in the near future. However, for this growth to continue and for the country to maintain its prominence, companies must look to innovate and adapt to a changing world.