UK: Manufacturing downturn mirrors other developed economies
Commenting on the latest results from the Markit/CIPS PMI manufacturing survey, Mike Thornton, head of manufacturing at RSM said: "Although it's worrying to see the PMI index slip again this month to its lowest level since February 2013, it isn’t surprising when you look at other leading manufacturing nations.
Whether it’s Germany, the US, China or globally, we’ve started to see a slowdown as each market has entered a period of contraction.
"So, while manufacturers benefitted from a strong start to the year due to businesses and households pulling forward purchases ahead of the original Brexit deadline; we could now see slower growth, which could signal a period of recession across the sector globally.
"Although the decline in activity is being seen across the globe; in the UK, Brexit and the uncertainty it brings is impacting the industry regarding investment. Only last week, Vauxhall confirmed it would build the next generation of the Astra model in Ellesmere Port if we avoid a no deal Brexit – highlighting the real need for clarity to boost the sector."
