Manchester has a rich history of invention . It was the birthplace of the first industrial revolution in 1760 with the spinning Jenny , which led to an increase in slave labour to keep up with demand . The world ’ s first stored computer ( inset ) ran in 1948 at The University of Manchester and now The Advanced Machinery & Productivity Institute in Greater Manchester aims to future proof the UK ’ s manufacturing sector by creating new jobs and opportunities , ready for the next stage of industry evolution .

Johannesburg started out as a gold mining settlement in the 1880s . Now , it ’ s a business hub and the financial capital of South Africa , responsible for 17 % of the country ’ s GDP . The city is the headquarters of chemical manufacturer AECI , which was founded in 1896 and works across mining and agriculture , in the development of various chemicals and explosives .

Africa ’ s largest packaging company , Nampak , is based north of the city and provides packaging for food , beverages and industrial goods .

32 October 2023