Richard Foord, MP for Honiton and Sidmouth, this week made a high-profile visit to the Exeter facility of Isembard, a software-led manufacturer of high-precision components for the aerospace, defence and energy sectors.
The site, run by 22-year-old Shaun Rowcliffe, is Isembard’s first franchised factory and embodies a new model for UK industrial growth.
During his tour, Mr Foord inspected sophisticated machinery used to produce components for satellites and defence systems.
He also met with Mr Rowcliffe to discuss how Isembard’s network approach - combining advanced automation and a proprietary software (MasonOS) - can help revive British manufacturing.
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Isembard, founded in 2024 and based in London, recruits existing machine-shop owners into its network, upgrading their capability to deliver high-performance manufacturing across the country.
The company currently operates four factories across the UK and the US, and plans to reach 25 in the UK and the US before expanding into Europe.
The Exeter facility underscores Isembard’s commitment to the South West, which the firm describes as a “hot spot” for advanced manufacturing and maritime innovation.
Mr Foord praised Mr Rowcliffe’s drive, saying: “We know that it is tough out there right now for young people in Devon, embarking on their chosen careers.
"That is why I am impressed by the get-up-and-go displayed by 22-year-old Shaun Rowcliffe, who has just started out in his own precision parts factory in Cullompton.
"He is joining the Isembard franchise, which is equally impressive in its ambition to put Britain back on the global manufacturing stage, proclaiming nothing less than a second industrial revolution. I wish them well in their endeavours.”
Mr Rowcliffe welcomed the MP’s support, revealing that the factory would be scaling the business further with robotic investment in addition to hiring more people.
The visit aligns with the government’s stated push for 'high-value' and advanced manufacturing.
According to Make UK’s UK Manufacturing: The Facts 2024, the sector delivered £217 billion in output last year and supported 2.6 million jobs.
Manufacturing remains a meaningful contributor in the South West. In 2023, the sector accounted for 10.7 per cent of regional output, with aerospace, defence and maritime engineering helping it to rank among the better-performing regions in the country.
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