Some good news to kick off the year with UK manufacturing stabilising as Brexit uncertainty fades and wages back to pre-economic crisis levels. 

We also have some good news of our own as the publishers of IP&E, Western Business Media, announce the launch of Air User LIVE which will take place on October 1st, 2020 at the Ricoh Arena – Coventry.

Western Business Media has been providing insight and information on the subject of compressed air for over 23 years via the AirUser guide, which is printed annually with IP&E. Now AirUser LIVE, will bring together experts in the field, companies at the forefront of product and technological developments and a select audience of attendees to inform, educate, debate and network. AirUser LIVE will provide a platform for delegates to gain a deeper insight into the industry more than ever before through a live conference and exhibition (more details, page 8). 

Western Business Media is really looking forward to welcoming IP&E readers to the inaugural event so save the date today to make sure you don’t miss out. Meanwhile if you are interested in sponsoring or exhibiting at the event please contact Rachel Godfrey on [email protected] or if you are interested in contributing to the seminar program please contact [email protected]

There’s also some exciting new content to look forward to in this issue of IP&E including a brand new supplement dedicated to HVAC management examining key issues in this area including energy efficiency and Indoor Air Quality. As investment in workplace training is expected to increase post-Brexit we also have a new regular section dedicated to training & development. And, ahead of International Women's Day on 8th March, don’t miss our interview with Winton’s Plant Manager Samantha Gear about how she got there, what’s helped her along the way, and why the industry needs more girls to take an interest in engineering right from the word go (page 90).

Finally it’s farewell from me this issue as I’m off to focus on my own projects – it’s been an absolute pleasure editing IP&E for the past year and I’m delighted to now be passing on the reins to Catherine Hackett, one of the company’s most experienced editors who will bring  a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to the role. Thank you to everyone who has supported me in the position and please feel free to stay in touch via LinkedIn if we are not connected already. 

We hope that you enjoy the issue and as always your feedback is very welcome.