Despite a short month and adverse weather, December results from the Manufacturing Technology Association's monthly survey show an increase in orders within the manufacturing technology sector.
Results of the Manufacturing Technology Association (MTA) survey of the machine tool and manufacturing technology sector show order intake increased by 10% in December, and invoiced sales grew nearly 60%, supporting recent data published by the British Chambers of Commerce which showed that strong performance in the manufacturing sector during Q4 has helped boost the UK economy.
Business confidence is on the increase, however there was a dip in the quantity of enquiries in December. This apparently seasonal reduction in inquiries may be attributed to the shorter working month. In regards to employment, the trend remains positive with a number of MTA members looking to recruit in the New Year.
In a rising market manufacturers should be looking for ways to further capitalise, and taking part in events such as the MACH exhibition, which will next be held in April 2012, providing an excellent platform to launch new products to market, and to meet new purchasers. Interested exhibitors should contact the MTA for more information.