Warehouses in Avonmouth are showing encouraging signs of growth said MAS

South West manufacturers are showing encouraging signs of growth, according to the latest findings of the Manufacturing Advisory Service in the South West (MAS-SW).

This is excellent news for the region as it promises a year of prosperity and investment from both national and international developers. Warehouse and distribution premises are set to be highly sought after with 47 per cent reporting an increase in enquiry levels compared with six months ago, which is a significant rise from the 37 per cent recorded in the previous quarter.

The Manufacturing Barometer, which is designed to provide a snapshot of regional manufacturing trends as well as an overview of economic conditions and sector issues, reflects encouraging growth over the last six months. Manufacturers reported an increase in six-monthly sales during the quarter July to September, compared to 55 per cent in the previous quarter (April to June) and 53 per cent in the same quarter last year.

The trend for employment over the next six months is particularly positive against the national outlook, with 39 per cent of respondents expecting to increase staff numbers. Over half also expect their headcount to remain the same, meaning that overall, 90 per cent expect to increase their workforce or keep it at the same level. These statistics are extremely encouraging as they truly represent economic prosperity in the area and therefore and increased prediction of investment and expansion in the area.

Commenting on the findings, Simon Howes, Managing Director, MAS-SW, said: “While economic conditions remain challenging, it is encouraging to see growth over the last six months in South West manufacturing. Manufacturers are understandably cautious about their prospects but there are genuine reasons to be confident and bullish about the future. The Government is committed to helping manufacturers to prosper, as was borne out by Minister for Business, Mark Prisk’s announcement of a new, nationally-operated Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS) focused on driving growth, which our network of local specialists will continue to deliver in the South West.”

Distribution premises and manufacturing buildings should look forward to a prosperous year where growth and investment increase the desirability of already sought after warehouses.

Source: MAS