Jonathan Reynolds MP visits Manchester Met to explore University’s role in shaping UK’s economic future
Manchester Metropolitan University welcomed Jonathan Reynolds MP today (Friday, June 6) to showcase how its research, education, and innovation activities are supporting the UK’s industrial strategy and wider economic ambitions.
The MP for Stalybridge and Hyde and Secretary of State for Business and Trade met with academic leaders and visited some of the University’s specialist centres to learn more about the impact of Manchester Met’s education and research.
This includes generating £2.4 billion for the national economy in a single year and a 60% productivity boost for businesses, thanks to the University-led degree apprenticeships programme.
The visit began at PrintCity, Manchester Met’s specialist centre for 3D printing and digital manufacturing. Equipped with cutting-edge technology and staffed by a dynamic team of researchers and industry experts, PrintCity supports businesses across Greater Manchester and beyond – helping them adopt new technologies, improve productivity, and bring innovative products to market.
From footwear and costume design to engineering prototypes, the centre plays a vital role in boosting SME growth and fostering the development of high-value skills.
The MP also met with colleagues from the University’s Centre for Enterprise and the Centre for Decent Work and Productivity, where discussions focused on how Manchester Met is shaping the future of business, leadership, and employment.
The University supports more than 3,000 SMEs through programmes such as ‘Help to Grow: Management’, while its research informs national policy on good work, women’s health in the workplace, and the future of self-employment.
The Rt Hon Jonathan Reynolds MP said: “It was great to see the work that Manchester Met is doing to underpin the Greater Manchester economy by developing innovative manufacturing, fostering high-value skills and supporting our local SMEs. Our universities have a huge role to play promoting growth and tackling regional inequality.”
While visiting the University’s Business School, the MP was shown Manchester Met’s state-of-the-art Bloomberg Trading suite, which gives students hands-on experience through the simulation of real-world trading conditions.
Integrated into the Business School’s courses, the facility enables students to analyse economic trends and make informed decisions all while learning how to navigate the complexities of the global financial landscape.
Professor Malcolm Press CBE DL, Vice-Chancellor of Manchester Metropolitan University, said: “This visit was a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate how Manchester Met is delivering impact far beyond our campus. From powering innovation and digital skills to supporting fair employment and clean growth, our research and education are making a real difference to businesses, communities, and national priorities.”
Find out more about the impact of research and education at Manchester Met.
