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Over the 11 years I have played a role in the West of England Aerospace Forum, I have been in continual awe of the significance of our region economically. Businesses in aerospace, defence, security and space – as pillars of advanced manufacturing – generate £6.6 billion in value add in our region alone, employ over 70,000 people, and boast £15.6 billion in turnover.
The role that WEAF has played in this success story cannot be overstated – through a targeted programme of business engagements, including our cluster events, our networking, our gala dinner and conference, and the genuine community that WEAF represents, we have been pivotal to moving this forward.
The efforts of Colin, Belinda, Emily and Rosie, supported by experts across the ecosystem, have truly been transformative to our business success. They have worked tirelessly to deliver for us as members.
It has not always been easy, and as we have sought to expand our offering – into new sectors, new services, new territories and with a new government to boot, the time is right to make a change to our structure.
Given the wider, complex operating environment, last year, WEAF Board approached ADS regarding the future direction of our organisation.
ADS, as the national trade body, has a history of supporting businesses in aerospace, defence, security and space. Their size and national coverage means that they provide a wealth of services to the sectors.
Conversations with ADS progressed at pace. From day one, I was impressed by the professionalism of their team, and the sheer volume of services they offer members.
Following an extensive working period, the WEAF Board concluded that a change in operations was needed in order to continue to grow and provide additional benefits, value and influence.
As a result, from 1 April 2026, WEAF will cease operations, and ADS South West will form, building on WEAF’s success. By integrating the activities and remit of WEAF to form ‘ADS South West’, we can collectively strengthen aerospace, defence, security, space and advanced manufacturing capabilities in the South West.
ADS South West will retain most of the existing team, and provide regional opportunities for members, as well as connections to the wider UK ecosystem. While much of the team will remain, WEAF CEO Colin Turner will step down on this changeover, and we would like to express our sincere thanks for his tireless enthusiasm for our region.
On behalf of the WEAF Board, I would like to stress how excited we are to be taking this next step for our industries.