Liz Kendall MP visits Michael Smith Switchgear site

Liz Kendall MP visited carbon-neutral Michael Smith Switchgear's base in her Leicester West constituency.

Ms Kendall met with managers and apprentices during her visit to the site on the Braunstone Frith Industrial Estate.

She spoke with Managing Director Sean Smith and Operations and Finance Director Emily Smith about skills, apprenticeships, and MSSL's sustainability journey.

Ms Kendall then toured the factory floor, meeting with MSSL apprentices and hearing how MSSL works on developing future industry talent.

Speaking after the visit, she said: “Michael Smith Switchgear is a brilliant example of how manufacturing growth does not need to compromise Net Zero ambitions while also creating fantastic roles for apprentices”.

Apprentices are an important part of the MSSL workforce.

MSSL has doubled its workforce over recent years, simultaneously dramatically reducing staff absence days.

A programme is also now in place to support employee wellbeing through training, mentoring, and workplace initiatives.

Ms Kendall's visit demonstrated the role of apprenticeships and skills in driving Leicester’s economic growth.

Providing clear career pathways for young people is essential for maintaining a resilient and innovative manufacturing sector.

MSSL received the King's Award for Sustainable Development in 2025 in recognition of its work on skills, standards, and sustainability.

And Managing Director, Sean Smith, said: “Sustainability at MSSL is about people as much as the planet.

“Our apprentices and skilled team members are the foundation of our success-and the reason we continue to grow, innovate, and lead the way in UK manufacturing.”