Newly released data highlighting the fastest manufacturing output growth for 15 years has bolstered optimism in a balanced economy recovery with exports and factory production as the driving force.

Statistics show that there was 1.4 percent expansion in the sector in Q1 2014 and that imports and exports came closer together in March. The growth in the first quarter is the most significant seen since 1999.

The swell in manufacturing output far exceeded total economic growth, which was recorded at 0.8 percent, leaving many to conclude that the economy is increasingly relying on factory production.

Martin Beck, senior economic adviser to the EY Item Club, said:

“The ‘march of the makers’ continues. And with April’s manufacturing PMI registering one of its best readings in the last three years, [the second quarter] seems set fair for further strong growth in the manufacturing sector.”

However, David Kern, chief economist for the British Chambers of Commerce, suggested that more could be done to boost international trade:

“While there are signs of a small improvement in the UK’s international trade performance over time, the pace of change is still painfully slow.”

UWrap, a manufacturer of shrink wrapping machinery who both works in and supplies the sector, regularly reacts to industry news. A representative for the Blackpool-based company said that they believe manufacturing will become even more important to the British economy going forward:

“Manufacturing has been on a steady increase for some time now, becoming more and more important to the overall health of the British economy. From where we’re seated we’ve certainly noticed that British manufacturers are doing a lot better than they were only a few years ago, with more demand than ever for shrink wrapping machines and equipment. The fact that businesses are improving their output capacity with higher quality shrink wrapping equipment is fantastic.

“The only criticism you could make of the industry at the moment is that international trade still has plenty of room to improve, but aside from that the sector is in great health and our phones have been ringing non-stop.”

UWrap Ltd has enjoyed almost 30 years as a leader in the shrink wrap machine sector, providing equipment for businesses in the UK, EU, USA and beyond. They’re passionate about engineering and are proud to have worked with a large number of British clients in various industries. More information can be found at www.uwrap.co.uk.

Contact Paul Easton for quotes on 01253 300400 or paul@uwrap.co.uk