INCREASED productivity for manufacturing companies in the region is the aim of a three-year programme an-nounced by the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA).

KPMG has been contracted by SEEDA to promote and programme manage the "lean manufacturing" programme across SEEDA's key industrial sectors.

This initiative focuses on adapting processes to save time and money and reduce waste. It is one of the key ways the agency aims to increase wealth in the region by increasing business competitiveness, as set out in the regional economic strategy published by the development agency earlier this year.

KPMG will be responsible for marketing the scheme and recruiting relevant companies together with putting together a programme partnership.

The current partner organisations include EEF South, SA Partners, SBAC, ASSA and EMTA.

The final part is a formal recognition for individual managers and workers who participate in the scheme; this is likely to take the form of a NVQ in business improvement techniques or similar accredited qualification.

KPMG has worked with SEEDA to develop the scheme in a way which will ensure permanent change. Sustainability is one of the core values of the agency and the scheme has been developed to ensure that companies who have received training and advice don't revert back to old ways.

By bringing the whole supply chain together, implementing lean techniques for companies and suppliers, the prospects for long-term success of the project are improved.