The article focuses on small manufacturing companies and how they manage innovation. The researchers surveyed 1000 manufacturing SMEs in the West Midlands and found that successful companies focused on market anticipation, customer needs, and CEO commitment to innovation. These companies prioritized developing new work methods over new products. The main challenges for these firms were customer reliance, lack of skills training, and a reluctance to network. Overall, the study provides valuable insights into how small manufacturing firms handle innovation.