The latest National Manufacturing Barometer, a quarterly survey conducted by SWMAS (part of Exelin Group) in partnership with Economic Growth Solutions (EGS), has generated an upbeat response from its invited 320 manufacturing industry leaders. An overwhelming majority of respondents (72%) said they anticipate an increase in sales in the next six months – the highest figure recorded for nearly three years.

Encouragingly, more than half (56%) of manufacturers included in the Barometer indicated that they aimed to deliver against their growth targets by investing in machinery and premises, a rise of 13% on the last report. However, 48% of respondents to the latest survey said they planned to recruit new staff, which is only 2% higher than the same time last year. This suggests that improving productivity through the existing workforce and facilities remains the key focus.
For further information www.swmas.co.uk/barometer