For many small manufacturers, security only becomes a focus when something goes wrong. But with bring your own device becoming more normal for all sorts of businesses, the growing reliance on subcontractors, and increasing digital complexity, the risks are harder to ignore. 

In this episode of Made to Grow, Rich speaks to Luke Appleby from Equilibrium Risk about how manufacturers can take a sensible, business-first approach to security. From managing physical vulnerabilities to understanding cyber risks, this conversation explores what good security looks like and how to make it work for your size and setup. 

If you're thinking about digital transformation or looking at MRP software implementation, it’s worth a listen.

About the Guest

Luke Appleby runs Equilibrium Risk, a company that helps manufacturers put in place practical, tailored security measures. His background spans both physical and cyber security, with experience supporting small firms that don’t have in-house expertise. From securing sites and systems to helping businesses get Cyber Essentials certified, Luke works with clients to focus on what really matters for their day-to-day operations.

Key Topics in This Episode

• Why small lapses in physical security often lead to bigger problems

• The role of company culture in preventing theft and dishonest behaviour

• What motivates security breaches—and how to reduce risk by removing easy opportunities

• Understanding Cyber Essentials and what it means in practical terms

• Why security should support your business goals, not get in the way of them

• Common oversights in small manufacturing setups (e.g. data access, default settings, skip management)

• How to start a sensible, proportionate approach to change management in manufacturing

What’s Next?

This episode links to the final chapter in Flowlens’ free eBook, Fearless Digital Transformation, which covers security considerations for manufacturers modernising their systems. If you’re updating how your business works—whether that’s rolling out new software or improving how data is shared—it’s important to make sure the basics are covered.

Further Reading & Resources

Download the Fearless Digital Transformation eBook

Visit Equilibrium Risk

Connect with Luke Appleby on LinkedIn

Learn more about Flowlens MRP Software

Overview of Cyber Essentials (National Cyber Security Centre)

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