A BUSINESS in Launceston opened its doors to the public to get involved with the UK’s National Manufacturing Day.

For the second year running, The Natural Fibre Company in Launceston took part in Make UK’s National Manufacturing Day on September 26. The team at the specialist woollen spinning mill welcomed Kerri-Anne Mruk, interim regional director at Make UK, who visited for the first time and joined members of the local community for a behind-the-scenes afternoon tour.

Colin Spencer Halsey and Kerri-Anne Mruk National Manufacturers Day 2024 at National Fibre Company Launceston
Colin Spencer Halsey and Kerri-Anne Mruk National Manufacturers Day 2024 at National Fibre Company Launceston (Submitted)

The event provides a rare opportunity for the public to pull back the curtain on a number of industries, providing an inside look at the day-to-day for those working within the industry.

This year, the mill team provided their guests with an opportunity to speak to those working within textiles manufacturing in the region and to see workplace demonstrations in each of the mill areas including sorting, spinning, and finishing.

Each year on National Manufacturing Day, Britain’s manufacturers come together to open their facilities up to future makers to highlight the amazing career opportunities, including apprenticeships and internships, available in this thriving sector. The national day aims to encourage all ages to see for themselves what a career in manufacturing has to offer, providing an insight for young people and more experienced workers wishing to reskill. It also provides members of the local community, neighbouring businesses, suppliers and customers, the chance to see the highly skilled and specialised work that takes place on their doorstep.

Colin Spencer Halsey, CEO said: “We were once again delighted to host the Make UK National Manufacturing Day 2024. Our special guest Kerri-Anne Mruk, Make UK’s Interim-Director for the South region, joined by community and local society guests thoroughly enjoyed their Mill experience. The tour hosted and led by our excellent staff demonstrated our breadth of knowledge and capabilities and was very well received and enjoyed by all.”

Following the success of the open day, The Natural Fibre Company team is already planning its involvement in the national initiative again next year, which will be on September 25, 2025.