Applelec Named One of West Yorkshire’s Top 30 Businesses by Digital Enterprise

Applelec is proud to be recognised as one of the Top 30 most impactful businesses supported by Digital Enterprise in West Yorkshire, securing the largest grant awarded this year to implement a cutting-edge ERP system that is helping reshape the future of our operations.

This recognition, featured in the latest Digital Enterprise Top 100 report, reflects not only our investment in digital innovation but also the cultural transformation we’ve undergone since becoming an Employee Ownership Trust.

Being included in the “Top 30” highlights our strong performance, innovation and contribution within the West Yorkshire business community. It also reflects the confidence that our Digital Enterprise have in our vision and capability to deliver. The grant itself is a tangible endorsement of our strategy and paves the way for digitally transforming how we work — enabling us to better serve our customers, empower our team and accelerate our growth journey.

Unlocking Growth Through Digital Transformation

With over 20 years serving the signage and architectural lighting industry, Applelec has always embraced change — but the introduction of our new enterprise resource planning (ERP) system marks a turning point. Backed by a grant from Digital Enterprise, this system streamlines and unifies sales, inventory, production, and customer service across a single platform.

Rachel Gould, our Marketing Manager, explains:

“We wanted a tool that would support every aspect of the business — from project inception to delivery. With our workforce now invested in the outcome, there’s a real energy behind making this a success.”

A System Built for Innovation and Efficiency

As a bespoke manufacturer working on complex projects for clients such as Selfridges, the Houses of Parliament, and Parklife Festival, Applelec needed a solution that could enhance visibility and communication across departments. The ERP system now enables real-time tracking of orders and stock levels, helping reduce production waiting times and improve customer responsiveness.

The financial benefits are significant too — projected reductions in stockholding by over 30% will release capital to reinvest in research, development, and market expansion.

Culture of Ownership, Driven by People

The move to an Employee Ownership Trust has been key to embedding this digital shift. Every team member now has a stake in the company’s success, fostering greater collaboration, accountability, and pride.

“There’s a real feeling of unity,” adds Rachel. “People have always cared, but now it feels different — we’re building something together.”

Looking Ahead: AI and the Future of Smart Manufacturing

Applelec isn’t stopping here. As we integrate the ERP system further, we’re also exploring AI-driven tools to unlock predictive insights and further enhance our services. This next chapter of our digital journey promises to deliver even deeper value to our clients, partners, and people.

Read the article: https://indd.adobe.com/view/b1c47f15-36a4-4cf8-9fd5-1b3538b24952