The rate of decline in orders and output for small and medium-sized manufacturers is slowing, according to data released by the CBI's (Confederation of British Industry) quarterly SEM Trends Survey.
Of the 480 small and medium-sized businesses surveyed 51% reported a fall in orders in the three months to July and 17% saw a rise, leading to a balance of -34%.
This figure is a marked improvement on the previous quarters balance of -51%, which was the worst balance since the survey began in 1988.
Optimism about the business situation among small and medium-sized manufacturers is also falling at a slower rate, with a balance of -9% optimistic, compared to -42% in the previous quarter.
"Business conditions remain difficult for the UK's small and medium-sized manufacturers. Orders and output are still falling, but things aren't quite as gloomy as they were three months ago," said Russel Griggs, Chairman of the CBI's SME Council.
www.ukba.co.uk
Showing posts with label CBI. Show all posts
Showing posts with label CBI. Show all posts
Thursday, 6 August 2009
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