We Are Wakefield

The first We Are Wakefield Manufacturing Forum took place at Wakefield Town Hall, bringing together manufacturers from across the district for an engaging and insightful discussion with Tony Reeves, Chief Executive of Wakefield Council.

The event marked the beginning of an exciting new platform designed by manufacturers, for manufacturers, creating opportunities to share ideas, tackle common challenges and build stronger connections across the sector.

A key focus of the morning was an open question-and-answer session with Tony Reeves, where attendees were able to gain valuable insight into the Council’s vision for supporting business growth across the district. Discussions covered a range of important topics including skills provision, the availability of land for business development, and the 10 key priorities set out by the new Leader of Wakefield Council.

The forum provided a unique opportunity for local manufacturers to engage directly with senior Council leadership and discuss the issues that matter most to their businesses and the future prosperity of Wakefield’s manufacturing sector.

Beyond the formal discussions, the event was also a fantastic networking opportunity. Established members and first-time attendees spent time connecting, sharing information about their businesses and exploring ways they could support one another. By the end of the session, several exciting collaborative opportunities were already being discussed, highlighting the value of bringing the sector together in one room.

There was a strong sense of optimism throughout the event, with attendees agreeing that the Manufacturing Forum fills an important gap for local businesses by providing a dedicated space to engage, learn and collaborate.

Tony Reeves reinforced the importance of collaboration within the business community, saying:

“Businesses succeed when they work together and share challenges and the We Are Wakefield Manufacturing Forum is providing a platform for businesses to engage and work together.”

Tony also shared inspiring examples from across the UK, demonstrating how businesses that openly share ideas and collaborate have gone on to develop innovative products and create globally successful companies. His message was clear: when organisations work together, remarkable things can happen.

The commitment from Wakefield Council was another significant outcome of the event. The Council confirmed it will be present at all future Manufacturing Forum meetings and will provide the forum with its full support, recognising the important role manufacturing plays in driving economic growth and creating opportunities across the district.

The launch event demonstrated exactly what can be achieved when businesses come together with a shared purpose. As conversations continue and new partnerships begin to take shape, the future looks bright for Wakefield’s manufacturing community.

The We Are Wakefield Manufacturing Forum will continue to champion collaboration, innovation and growth, ensuring manufacturers have a strong voice and a valuable network of peers to learn from and work alongside.