UK cluster group targets advanced materials
Axenic, Evince, Inex, Isocom, Filtronic, Kromek, Pragmatic, Viper RF and II – VI form NEAME cluster group
A number of companies including Axenic, Evince, Inex, Isocom, Filtronic, Kromek, Pragmatic, Viper RF and II – VI are collaborating in a new UK cluster group called North East Advanced Material Electronics (NEAME).
NEAME’s mission is to highlight and promote the region as a centre of excellence for the design and manufacture of advanced material electronics, including compound semiconductors. The cluster – led by CEOs and other senior decision makers in the North East electronics industry – aims to provide a central voice both to raise the profile of the region and to help its members address their main challenges and opportunities profitably.
The electronics sector is projected to contribute £447m Gross Value Added to the region by 2026, with the potential to create and support around 4,500 jobs.
“NEAME is an opportunity to showcase this region’s strength within advanced material electronics. What has always struck me about this area is the level of innovation that is happening every day on our doorstep.” said Richard Gibbs of Filtronic, one of the founder members.
Paul Howell, MP for Sedgefield who officially launched the group said. ‘The North East continues to pioneer and develop new technologies that can have a huge impact on a global scale. The formation of the NEAME highlights the strength of the region’s growing advanced material electronics sector and presents an opportunity to develop the skills and the jobs of the future, establishing the North East as a global hub for this technology.
NEAME is being launched at the NMI’s annual conference in Durham. Jillian Hughes, NMI Director said, ‘NMI are delighted to be continuing our support of the UK semiconductor industry by hosting the announcement of the NEAME during our Annual conference. During the last 25 years we have supported the semiconductor design, manufacturing and supplier communities adding value through collaboration, networking and knowledge sharing.
