CNC Robotics and Made Smarter showcase robotic Additive Manufacturing to SMEs
CNC Robotics, based in Bootle, UK, in partnership with Made Smarter North West, recently provided local businesses with a hands-on look at how robotic Additive Manufacturing can transform production processes and open up new opportunities.
Visitors heard from Max Barnett, Sales and Marketing Engineer at CNC Robotics, who outlined the company’s fifteen-year journey from pioneering robotic automation to becoming a key delivery partner helping UK manufacturers adopt new technologies. It also plays a dual role, both as a beneficiary of the Made Smarter programme and as an advocate for it.
Visitors toured the facility, where live demonstrations showcased three robotic AM systems using metal, thermoplastic polymer and PU tooling paste. Delegates had the chance to see the technology in action and discuss how it could be applied within their own operations.
Claire Scott, Technology Adoption Specialist for Made Smarter, said, “Additive manufacturing is no longer an emerging concept. It is a proven, powerful tool that can help manufacturers of all sizes work smarter, faster and more sustainably. Events like this give businesses the confidence to explore what is possible and connect with others on similar journeys. It is fantastic to see so many SMEs coming together to share ideas and see the real-world potential of these technologies.”
Madina Barker, Co-Owner and Director, CNC Robotics, shared, “Collaborative events like this are about showing small businesses the art of the possible, that we can build resilience in the UK supply chain and do it ourselves. Technologies like Additive Manufacturing can help manufacturers become more efficient, save time and reduce waste.”
“At CNC Robotics, we have been on that journey ourselves. Through Made Smarter, we have had direct support, including funding and internships, and we have seen first-hand the difference it makes. That is why we are such advocates for the programme, it is genuinely transformational for small businesses,” Barker added.
Chris Wiles, Business Development Manager, Hyde Aero Products, based in Dukinfield, added, “As specialists in the design and manufacture of detailed aerospace parts and integrated structural components, we are always looking for new technologies that could move into the defence sector, and it is important to stay aware of what is coming next. What really struck me today was the speed of the process and how little material is wasted. It is definitely the future for metal manufacturing.”
Andy Knowles, Director, Magnum Motorsport Composites, based in St Helens, stated, “In motorsport, everything is about speed, not just the cars, but how fast we can get from a drawing to a finished part. As specialist manufacturers of lightweight, high-performance solutions, we are looking at ways to cut out steps in the process, go straight from digital design to 3D-printed molds, and make better use of materials along the way. CNC Robotics and Made Smarter really opened my eyes to how Additive Manufacturing could help us turn projects around quicker, reduce waste and keep up with the pace this industry demands.”
Building on this momentum, the programme is making Additive Manufacturing the focus of its next Digital Champions Network event on January 28, 2026, at the Engineering Innovation Centre (EIC), University of Lancashire, Preston.
Open to all SME manufacturers in the North West, the event aims to provide a valuable opportunity for networking, collaboration, and sharing experiences with peers, industry experts, and Made Smarter advisors. Visitors will gain practical insights into emerging tools such as the Additive Companion, hear real-world adoption stories from those already embracing the technology and tour the EIC’s state-of-the-art engineering facilities.
Those interested can register here.
