Date: 28 May 2025
Author: Cardtrend UK Team
Cardtrend had the pleasure of attending the Coventry and Warwickshire Champions event at the impressive Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC). The event brought together some of the region’s most dynamic businesses and thought leaders. Each one shared a commitment to driving innovation, growth, and resilience in today’s economic climate.
Overall, we left with valuable insights into how the region continues to thrive despite ongoing challenges. The presentations throughout the day highlighted the impact of collaboration, skills development and visionary leadership.
Spotlight on Innovation and Skills at MTC Training
One of the morning’s highlights was a presentation from MTC Training. It showcased how they’re preparing the next generation of engineers, technicians, and innovators through modern training and apprenticeship programmes. Although Cardtrend doesn’t operate in manufacturing, we found the session incredibly valuable. It underlined how strategic engagement with young talent can unlock innovation in any sector.
MTC’s focus on future-ready skills—such as digital manufacturing, automation and clean technologies—was both inspiring and relevant. We’re currently exploring local university collaborations in software development and UX/UI design. The ideas shared by MTC offered useful models that could strengthen our efforts in the tech space.
Insights from Lloyds Bank
We also heard from Lloyds Bank, which shared how they continue to support businesses in the Coventry and Warwickshire area—through funding, advisory services and initiatives that help SMEs weather economic pressures and scale sustainably. As a growing tech business, we understand the value of long-term thinking in a fast-changing economy.
Jaguar Land Rover, a Regional Powerhouse
It was particularly energising to learn how Jaguar Land Rover continues to thrive as a flagship brand in the region. The company’s continued investment in electrification, sustainability and innovation was a powerful example of how legacy manufacturers can successfully evolve with the times. Their story of adapting and scaling in a tough economy was both impressive and relatable, especially for businesses like ours working on tech-driven transformation in established sectors.
This message deeply resonated with us at Cardtrend. As a new player in the UK market, building trust is at the heart of our journey. We’ve seen firsthand how long-term success is rooted in credibility—our clients across Southeast Asia have stayed with us for over a decade, a testament to the value and consistency we strive to deliver. We’re hopeful that, with the same dedication, we can establish meaningful partnerships here in the UK and across Europe—anchored in reliability, innovation and mutual growth.
Cardtrend: Learning from the Region’s Champions
At Cardtrend, we are continually seeking opportunities to learn from industry leaders and regional success stories. Attending the Coventry and Warwickshire Champions event at the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) offered a valuable opportunity to see how local organisations are responding to today’s challenges and driving meaningful innovation. The stories shared underscored the importance of adaptability, collaboration and a long-term approach to growth—principles that strongly align with our own values as we expand in the UK and European markets.
We thank Coventry and Warwickshire Champions and the MTC for hosting such an insightful event, and we look forward to applying the lessons we’ve learned as we continue to grow and innovate.
