Case Histories
MAS fast track manufacturers success
The manufacturer of a revolutionary toy car system
is on the right road thanks to the help of the Manufacturing Advisory
Service – West Midlands (MAS-WM).
Hugo Lywood of Entertaining Solutions had designed a concept that required polymer components at the core of its construction. To ensure his Wondawheelz product was launched on time he contacted MAS-WM following a recommendation from a colleague.
Specialist Manufacturing Advisor Roy Pulley went in and assessed the needs of the company and referred them to RAPRA the rubber and plastics research specialists who carried out a materials and selection programme. Roy also referred them to Wolverhampton University who assisted with CAD and rapid prototyping.
Hugo enthused:
“The Manufacturing Advisory Service played an important role in the development of the project, and gave us access to the exceptional facilities and expertise found within the regions university’s and research organisations.”
Martin Woodley Regional Development Manager for RAPRA responded: “Entertaining Solutions represents exactly the sort of company that the programme set out to assist, SMEs who cannot access the mainstream technology market on their own. We were struck by the concept and were happy to provide an essential speed to market solution.”
This work meant the product was launched on time and in the first year Hugo has already placed £100,000 worth of orders with companies in the West Midlands and expects to place a further £400,000 worth over the next 12 –18 months.
Roy Pulley says: “The knock-on effect for other businesses in the region from the success of this project is great news and our intervention highlights the MAS appeal. If you want to make it better – we can help.”
The Wondawheelz product isn’t just talk as it has given a reprieve to a language school near his base in Tenbury Wells, Worcestershire. This had been closed down, but Hugo has used it to establish dedicated production facilities and primary supply chain. In doing so he has been able to retain staff and take on more employees.
Hugo added: “The logistical benefits and flexibility offered by local manufacture far outweigh the cost savings often associated with Far Eastern imports. We are in a stronger position to react to demand and can provide a more efficient service to our customers and their customers.”
Wondawheelz consists of a self-assembly battery powered chassis unit, upon which bodywork, downloaded free from the internet, can be attached. Hugo explains: “By combining the bodywork available from the internet, children can produce over 25,000 different vehicle configurations, creating everything from a missile launching tank to a 20 mph racing machine - all from one basic chassis unit and a few clicks of the mouse.”
The MAS-WM intervention has led to recognition for the Wondawheelz product and Wolverhampton University in the form of a Lord Stafford award, which recognises excellence in innovation through work with the regions universities.
It has also allowed Entertaining Solutions to initiate a competition with the nation’s 750,000 Scouts, Beavers and Cubs, who are designing the ultimate Scout vehicle bodywork. There is a cash prize for the winning troop and leading designs will be available to download from the website. Along with the kudos of a design that will be available worldwide, the competition will also help to change perceptions of engineering amongst children.
To find out how MAS-WM can help your business call 0845 245 0845 or visit www.mas-wm.org.
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