What are the prospects for the UK production machinery sector for 2010?
“ Our latest forecast predicts that UK orders will start to pick up and our latest survey of members saw significant growth in net order intake – all encouraging news for exhibitors keen to make sales at MACH 2010 in early June.
What could the government do to improve the position?
“ Although manufacturing in general is strengthening, it’s too early for the government to pull out support. We were disappointed that the capital allowances of 40% are to be pulled in March, hitting the affordability of industrial equipment and hampering investment. A rethink would be helpful.
What is really needed is for government to take a long-term view on transport, energy and green technologies to draw in the investment we need for major infrastructure change.
Are you optimistic or pessimistic for the long-term health of the industry and why?
“ We’re optimistic. Advanced engineering is weathering this economic turmoil.
People seem to be realising that putting all the country’s eggs in the basket marked ‘financial services’ was not a good idea.
© PE Publishing, 27 January 2010
