During a debate on the economy on the 16th September 2004 the Deputy First Minister announced to Parliament his intention to establish a Manufacturing Advisory Service in Scotland.
The Scottish Manufacturing Advisory Service delivers specialist advice on manufacturing best practice models, training opportunities and encourages networking and communication to manufacturing firms based in Scotland.
The announcement came in response to a recommendation by the Scottish Manufacturing Steering Group, where the Scottish Executive agreed to review, drawing on the experience of the Manufacturing Advisory Service in England and Wales, how best to provide a "comprehensive support framework for manufacturers in Scotland".
A review led by the Executive and involving Scottish Enterprise, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Scottish Engineering and a representative from manufacturing, was therefore established. Its findings led to the Deputy First Minister's announcement.
The Scottish Manufacturing Advisory Service is now operational and can be accessed via the Business Gateway.
Tel: 0845 609 6611 or email: scottishmas@scotent.co.uk