Kent & Medway Manufacturing Focus Group (KMFG) – 26th August

26th August 2026 10:00 am - 26th August 2026 12:00 pm
Balfour Winery, Five Oak Lane, Staplehurst, TN12 0HT

*PLEASE NOTE* KMFG is now a CLOSED GROUP specifically set up to support the Manufacturing & Engineering organisations in Kent & Medway, including education providers.  There are a limited number of places available due to capacity restrictions and as a result of these constraints we are only accepting one representative per organisation at this specific event.

Booking via this webpage is an expression of interest and we will confirm your attendance via email. 

If we reach full capacity, a waiting list will be established, and those on the list will be notified accordingly. 

** Only registered attendees will be admitted to the event ** Please book your place now to avoid disappointment.

Pictures may be taken at this event. If you do not wish your picture to be taken, please let us know ahead of the event.

Kent & Medway Manufacturing Focus Group (KMFG) is a networking and business group for Manufacturing & Engineering organisations across Kent and Medway offering a unique access to peers and colleagues, sector specific information, advice and support.

The group meets every last Wednesday of the month, alternating between face to face meetings and site visits, see our website for details of future events https://kentemployerskillsplan.org/

KMFG is open to all manufacturing and engineering organisations in Kent & Medway alongside education providers, whether they are chamber members or not.


Summer KMFG Site Visit: Innovation, Production and English Wine at Balfour Winery

Join us for our Summer KMFG site visit to Balfour Winery – one of England’s leading wine producers and a pioneer in traditional method sparkling wines and English still wines.

Set within the beautiful surroundings of the Hush Heath Estate, this visit offers a valuable opportunity for manufacturing and engineering organisations to explore the processes, technology and operational planning behind one of Kent’s most recognised producers. Attendees will hear more about Balfour’s journey from vineyard to finished product, including how quality, consistency, production efficiency and innovation have helped the business grow into one of England’s most respected wineries.

The visit will include a welcome to Balfour, followed by a guided tour and tasting of non-alcoholic wines, accompanied by a charcuterie board. It will also provide a relaxed opportunity to network with peers across the manufacturing and engineering sector in a unique Kent setting.

Why attend?

  • Gain insight into a local production business combining craftsmanship, quality control and innovation
  • Explore the processes behind English wine production, from vineyard operations through to finished product
  • Consider how brand, sustainability, technology and operational excellence support growth in a competitive sector
  • Network with manufacturing and engineering peers in relaxed summer surroundings

Itinerary

10:00am: Group arrival into Balfour Winery

10:15am: Tea & coffee served

10:30am: Guided tour of vineyards, orchards and woodlands – with special focus on the manufacturing and irrigation systems

11:30am: Non alcoholic tasting of 3 wines

12:00pm: Sharing platters served on the terrace

On-Site Arrangements & Parking

  • Parking is available on site. Please follow visitor signage on arrival and make your way to the main visitor entrance/check-in point.
  • The event is free to attend.
  • If you have any special dietary requirements, please let us know when booking your place.
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