Zebra Technologies and Singapore Manufacturing Federation Sign MOU to Help Boost Singapore SMEs

Zebra and the SMF signed a one-year MOU to support and empower Singapore SMEs through development and knowledge transfer initiatives

Singapore – Nov. 28, 2024 – Zebra Technologies Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd., a subsidiary company of Zebra Technologies Corporation (NASDAQ: ZBRA), a leading digital solution provider enabling businesses to intelligently connect data, assets, and people, recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF). The goal of the MOU is to roll out a range of initiatives to enhance support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Singapore, among other things.

SMF, as Singapore's leading trade federation, has consistently advocated for the growth of the manufacturing sector. By championing sustainable practices, empowering human capital, driving internationalization, and enhancing productivity, SMF plays a pivotal role in supporting SMEs in their journey toward growth and expansion.

“This MOU aligns with our core pillars of empowering human capital and enhancing productivity through innovation, reinforcing our mission to equip SMEs with the tools and knowledge for success,” said Dennis Mark, CEO of Singapore Manufacturing Federation. “Our partnership with Zebra Technologies reflects a shared commitment to driving meaningful transformation in local manufacturing—boosting competitiveness, workforce capabilities, and sustainable growth. Together, we are paving the way for an Industry 5.0 ecosystem that is innovative, resilient, and aligned with Singapore's global aspirations.”

With manufacturing comprising around 20% of Singapore’s GDP, this collaboration represents a positive advancement toward Industry 5.0. By encouraging SMEs to adopt advanced technologies and human-centric strategies, it is poised to significantly boost productivity and drive innovation, ultimately leading to increased GDP growth in the future. Additionally, it supports Singapore’s vision to become a global biotech hub by empowering local life sciences SMEs to deliver end-to-end healthcare manufacturing.

According to the Department of Statistics Singapore, SMEs are vital to the local economy as they make up 99% of the businesses in Singapore and account for 71% of the workforce. The MOU details initiatives to enhance their competitiveness and sustainability:

Support for SME development via training programs, mentorship, and access to new technologies and markets

  • Zebra experts will tailor training programs for Singaporean SMEs in sectors like manufacturing and healthcare. Starting from January 2025, the programs aim to reach 40 SMEs, including advanced engineering and manufacturing, building products & construction materials, electrical, electronics & applied industries, energy & chemicals, food & beverage, lifestyle, life sciences, medical technology, and smart automation.

Facilitation of industry knowledge

  • Zebra and SMF will be using the new SME training center to provide industry knowledge, best practices, and technical expertise, equipping local SMEs with essential skills for growth and innovation.

"Zebra Technologies is proud to be a key supporter of Singapore’s Manufacturing 2030 Vision by engaging and empowering both SMEs and MNCs. We are committed to enhancing their frontline capabilities, ensuring every aspect of their operations is visible, connected and fully optimized,” said Christanto Suryadarma, Sales Vice President for Southeast Asia (SEA), South Korea and Channel APJeC, Zebra Technologies. “Through this collaboration with the SMF, we aim to help local SMEs enhance their competitiveness and foster innovation to strengthen Singapore’s position as a digital manufacturing hub."

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ABOUT ZEBRA TECHNOLOGIES

Zebra (NASDAQ: ZBRA) helps organizations monitor, anticipate, and accelerate workflows by empowering their frontline and ensuring that everyone and everything is visible, connected and fully optimized. Our award-winning portfolio spans software to innovations in robotics, machine vision, automation and digital decisioning, all backed by a +50-year legacy in scanning, track-and-trace and mobile computing solutions. With an ecosystem of 10,000 partners across more than 100 countries, Zebra’s customers include over 80% of the Fortune 500. Newsweek recently recognized Zebra on its list of Global Most Loved Workplaces, and we are on Fast Company’s list of the Best Workplaces for Innovators. Learn more at www.zebra.com or sign up for news alerts. Follow Zebra’s Your Edge blog, LinkedIn, X and Facebook, and check out our Story Hub: Zebra Perspectives.

ABOUT SINGAPORE MANUFACTURING FEDERATION

Founded in 1932, the Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF) champions the nation's manufacturing sector by driving innovation and sustainable growth. Organized into 10 Industry Groups and supported by Associated Services, SMF addresses distinct industry needs. Focusing on sustainability, human capital, internationalization, and productivity, SMF enhances sector resilience. As a collaboration catalyst, it fosters strategic alliances and market expansion locally and globally. With above 5,000 diverse members, including SMEs, MNCs, and Affiliates, SMF shapes Singapore's manufacturing ecosystem and drives industry advancement.  Visit www.smfederation.org.sg for more information.

Media Contacts:
Daniel Chan
Zebra Technologies
daniel.chan@zebra.com

Teresa Yap / Annabell Woon
Archetype Singapore
Phone: +65-6603-9000
sgzebra@archetype.co

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