More mechanical engineering firms reported higher enquiry and order levels but they were in a minority as the sector stood still in 2012.
The research found that mechanical engineers were receiving more export enquiries than this time last year but “the fourth quarter hasn’t delivered all we had hoped for,” said Martin Walder, EAMA chairman.
However, Mr Walder believes that 2013 carries confidence and not the zig-zag changes experienced in the first half of 2012.
“The Chancellor has raised the Annual Investment Allowance ceiling ten-fold from £25,000 to £250,000, starting 1st January 2013, which members have told us will be very helpful, particularly for small and medium-sized businesses ” he added.
