Optimization Rises among UK’s Smaller Manufacturers
                     Optimization Rises among UK’s Smaller 
Manufacturers
Jenny Knight
Writes for smb-corner.com 
Small and Medium Business Corner & 
SMB Corner
According to the latest SME trends survey by CBI (Confederation of British 
Industry), optimism among UK’s smaller manufacturers is at record level. In 
the three months up to October (42%) firms reported that total new orders 
increased for the first time since July 2012 and (25%) said they decreased, 
giving a balance of +17%. This greater optimism and activity among small 
and medium enterprises has led to a change in the investment plans for the 
year ahead, with forecasts for spending on product innovation, plant and 
machinery, buildings and training all in a positive territory.
According to the survey, 42% of firms say an increase in domestic orders 
and 22% reported they decreased, giving a balance of +20% is the highest 
since January 1995.
33% of firms have an increase in export orders and 19% have a decrease, 
giving a balance of +14%, this is the highest since April 2011.
Output increased modestly at +8%, and predicted to increase (+15%) 
further in the next three months.
The quarter for which the survey has been made is a positive for for SME 
manufacturers, with output and new orders both on the rise. The SMEs 
expect further improvement in the following quarter.
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