Coronavirus – time for manufacturers to diversify?

Published by Rodney Sutton on 24 April 2020

Share this article

With the threat of Coronavirus many manufacturers across the UK are taking it upon themselves to diversify their production and provide support to front line staff and the medical sector.

This diversification is providing companies the ability to continue their trade, retain staff and make a difference in the fight against Coronavirus.

There are many good news stories in the media, with manufacturers normally providing solutions for unrelated sectors, such as motor, aerospace or appliance becoming a key source for medical supplies.

As a manufacturer, if you are able to perform injection moulding, have 3D printing capabilities, sewing facilities, are able to work with metal, or chemicals you may be able to assist.

There are a number of items currently being manufactured by companies that historically don’t work in this sector, such as ventilators, masks, visors, gowns, medical trolleys, IV stands, sanitiser, et cetera.  We have seen many of our clients diversifying and adapting to current circumstances and demands.

The government has set up a website where businesses are able to offer assistance for various support functions, including manufacturing.  There is a brief survey, whereby you provide details of what expertise you are able to offer, the region you are located in, company name and number and approximate number of employees.  This survey can be found here.

There is also an NHS Supply Chain page, which can be found here and response form here, whereby you can offer to supply required PPE to the NHS.  This includes the following items:

  • Aprons
  • Body Bags
  • Clinical Waste Bags
  • Eye Protection (glasses and face shields), Face Mask II, Face Masks IIR
  • Respirators FFP2, Respirators FFP3
  • Fit Test (Solutions) for masks Fit Test (Full Kits) for masks
  • General Purpose Detergent
  • Gloves (Exam only NOT surgeons)
  • Gowns
  • Hand Hygiene
  • Swabs
  • Covid19 Testing Kits
  • Extraordinary items or services specific to Coronavirus response; e.g. temporary buildings, staff

Share this article

Email Rodney

    • yes I have read the privacy notice and am happy for Kreston Reeves to use my information






    Related people

    Email David

      • yes I have read the privacy notice and am happy for Kreston Reeves to use my information






      View teamSubscribe

      Close Expand

      Subscribe to our newsletters

      Our complimentary newsletters and event invitations are designed to provide you with regular updates, insight and guidance.

        • Business, finance and tax issuesPersonal finance, tax, legal and wealth management issuesInternational business issuesCharity and not-for-profit issues

        • Academies and educationAgricultureFinancial servicesLife sciencesManufacturingProfessional practicesProperty and constructionTechnology

        • yes I agree I have read and accept the privacy policy and am happy for Kreston Reeves email communications I have selected above






        You can unsubscribe from our email communications at any time by emailing [email protected] or by clicking the 'unsubscribe' link found on all our email newsletters and event invitations.