Blackburn ceramics specialist Darwen Terracotta among craft businesses modernising production

Heritage craft manufacturers are embracing digital technology to protect traditional skills and scale their businesses, with support from Made Smarter North West.

From architectural ceramics specialists and glass studios to luxury clothing makers and blacksmiths, businesses rooted in craft are adopting tools such as digital design, 3D scanning and automated manufacturing through the government-backed technology and skills adoption programme.

For many heritage manufacturers, the challenge lies in balancing centuries-old techniques with the demands of modern production, including larger projects, tighter deadlines and rising material costs.

Digital tools are helping businesses improve efficiency, reduce waste and take on more complex work while keeping skilled craftsmanship at the heart of their operations.

Darwen Terracotta, the Blackburn-based manufacturer specialising in architectural terracotta and faience used in the restoration of historic buildings and contemporary architecture, has combined heritage ceramic craftsmanship with digital technology to improve efficiency and scale production.

Since engaging with Made Smarter in 2018, the business has accessed digital strategy advice, skills programmes, a digital internship and technology consultancy to explore tools including 3D scanning, digital sculpting, additive manufacturing and robotics. As a result turnover has almost tripled to £6.7 million and headcount increased from 43 to 51.

Siddique Rasul, Digital Project Manager at Darwen Terracotta, said: “Made Smarter gave us the space, support and expertise to explore new technologies in a structured way, while bringing our people with us on the journey. Digital transformation isn’t about replacing traditional skills. It’s about understanding what the tools can do, testing them properly and building confidence before scaling.”

Across the region, manufacturers rooted in traditional craft industries are beginning to adopt similar technologies.

Donna Edwards, Programme Director of Made Smarter North West, said: “Heritage craft manufacturers are a vital part of the UK’s industrial story. Many of these businesses are built on generations of skill, creativity and specialist knowledge, producing high-value products where craftsmanship remains central to the process.

“What Made Smarter is showing is that digital technology can strengthen those traditions rather than replace them. It is about protecting those skills for the future and helping businesses grow, compete and pass their knowledge on to the next generation.”