A final evaluation has been completed of the original SWMAS programme which has identified added value achieved to the companies involved of £13.8m (achieved primarily through cost savings). The programme has now been extended to April 2008 bringing the South West RDA's total investment to over £4m. The SWMAS assists businesses to develop lean processes and to plan for growth. SWMAS has continued to help and support manufacturers with a further 28 diagnostic reviews and 20 in-depth consultancies achieving a further added value of £800k. 
 
Over the next 2 years, SWMAS will be working with 60 manufacturing firms, through their Strategic Management Programme, to provide them with comprehensive, hands-on support, focusing on topics ranging from product marketing strategies through to financial plans and models. Two manufacturing specialists have been delivering the programme across the region. This is already showing powerful results, with Taunton Fabrications, for example, winning the small business section of the West of England Business of the Year Awards. SWMAS has been working closely with Taunton Fabrications over the past three years to help them improve productivity, reduce waste and compete more effectively in the marketplace. 
 
For more information on SWMAS visit: www.swmas.co.uk