UK Manufacturing looks to end 2016 on a high
Rises in output, new orders and employment has set UK manufacturing on a strong start to the final quarter of 2016, as the latest Markit/CIPS PMI comes in at 54.3.
The falling value of the pound has again boosted inflows of new export business, particularly from the US, the EU and China. Head of manufacturing at Lloyds Bank Commerical Banking, Dave Atkinson commented: “Manufacturing activity remains at its highest level since January, and the fact that firms have maintained a positive outlook amid an uncertain landscape is something to be applauded.”
For more on the latest figures, head here.. http://ow.ly/edhs30601Tn.
James Dyson launches free engineering university to tackle skills shortage
Under new plants laid out by the Department of Education, James Dyson is to open an Institute of Technology, offering free engineering degrees as well as paid jobs.
The university will be located at Dyson’s R&D campus in Wiltshire, with hopes that the institute will help to tackle the growing skills shortage in engineering. The new degrees have been introduced at a time where Dyson are looking to double their engineering team by 2020.
To find out Dyson’s plans for the university, head here.. http://ow.ly/5oA6306020S
Manufacturers positive in spite of Brexit
According to a new study in association with the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE), UK manufacturers are making the most of weak sterling and international opportunities.
More than half (51%) believe that the weaker pound is a key benefit to future business over the next few years, while low interest rates (20%) and lower regulatory burden (17%) were also seen as a positive. Head of manufacturing at BDO LLP, Tom Lawton commented: “The UK manufacturing sector remains critical to future success of the economy. Despite uncertainty at home and abroad, it is promising to see firms are pushing forward.”
You can take a look at the results from the study by heading here.. http://ow.ly/rC3c306021V