Manufacturers in the UK are increasingly optimistic about their prospects, including job creation, although confidence is clouded by export uncertainty, a new report suggests.
A survey of more than 300 firms by the manufacturers’ organisation EEF found rising confidence over recruitment and investment plans.
Firms of all sizes hired new staff in recent months, and the EEF forecast the sector will grow by 2.7% next year, slightly faster than the total economy.
EEF chief economist Lee Hopley said: “Over the course of the year we have seen a definite turnaround in prospects for manufacturing, and this looks set to continue into next year.
“This increased confidence is evident in companies looking to increase their headcount and, most importantly for balanced growth, step up their investment.
