Midlands manufacturers unite to remove transport barriers for 700 students at first West Midlands Manufacturing Festival

Posted on 15 Jan 2026 by The Manufacturer

The West Midlands Manufacturing Festival will welcome 700 students for its inaugural event, thanks to an extraordinary show of support from manufacturers and individuals across the country who came together to fund coach transport for schools.

Transport is well known as the single biggest barrier preventing schools from giving students meaningful encounters with employers. Without access to affordable transport, too many young people miss out on seeing real workplaces, meeting employers, and discovering the exciting careers on their doorstep.

In response, the UK manufacturing community stepped up. From major manufacturers to small businesses and even individuals, the industry rallied to sponsor coach seats, ensuring all students have the opportunity to attend the festival, regardless of their school’s transport budget.

This collective effort reflects what makes the manufacturing sector so special; a collaborative, community-minded industry proud of its innovation, opportunities, and future-facing careers. By removing the transport barrier, sponsors are opening doors for hundreds of young people to experience first-hand how exciting and impactful modern manufacturing really is.

Transporting 700 students simply would not have been possible without this generosity. The festival and its supporters stand as a powerful example of what can be achieved when an industry comes together to invest in the next generation.

Find more information on how to get involved in the event here: West Midlands Manufacturing Festival

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