Manufacturers positive in third quarter

YORKSHIRE’s manufacturing sector enjoyed a positive third quarter in an otherwise mixed picture for the region’s businesses.

The latest quarterly economic surveys show manufacturers in South Yorkshire increase headcount significantly alongside an improvement in UK sales and orders.

In Bradford, a growing number of manufacturing businesses saw a fall in sales and orders but confidence levels held up.

Richard Wright, executive director of Sheffield Chamber, said: “Improving cashflow, especially in manufacturing, plus some indications of investments in training, machinery and employment is great to see.

“This is exactly the action needed and a step in the right direction to ultimately have a knock-on effect to increase sales and orders to a stronger and more stable position.”

Businesses on the Humber were less enthusiastic about investing in training and machinery but celebrated an increase in export sales however confidence levels dipped in this part of the region.

Dr Ian Kelly, Hull and Humber Chamber chief executive, said: “The performance of UK sales and exports over the summer were of some comfort, being a good deal better than this time last year.

“However, significant falls in confidence: profit expectations, cashflow and employment prospects are a significant matter of concern going forward into the autumn.”

The Bradford Chamber said the results of the latest survey illustrated the need for further demand measures from the Government.

Chamber president Stephen Wright said:  “While it’s disappointing that more firms are not yet filling their order books, the saving grace is that there’s no build-up of pressure on them to raise their prices just yet. 

“Such a situation cannot continue indefinitely though – more stimulants for growth need to be found by those controlling the levers of power.  Government is calling for jobs to be created in the private sector but we cannot do that without greater demand for our products and services.”