Most read: UK manufacturing sector on solid growth path

ERJ staff report (PR)

London - Demand for UK-made goods rose strongly in June, according to the latest industrial trends survey from business group the CBI (Confederation of British Industry).

Total order books reached their strongest level since an 18-year high in December 2013. This strength was broad-based, with above average results in 14 out of the 17 sectors. The food and drink sector was particularly robust, reporting its fullest order books in just under four years.

Export order books rallied to a level well above the long run average, driven by particularly strong results from the mechanical engineering, electronics and automotive industries.

The survey of 514 manufacturers found output volumes also continued to rise at a similarly solid pace to that seen in the past three months, with expectations of stronger growth for the coming quarter.

“Demand for British-made goods remains buoyant and that’s helped drive this quarter’s further rise in output,” said Katja Hall, CBI deputy director-general. “Growth is broad-based, with the recovery spreading its roots, and firms have high hopes for the coming quarter.”

The CBI boss added a note of caution regarding the recent rise in Sterling and its potential impact on the resilient rise in export orders.

“As a result, now is the right time to capitalise on boosting manufacturing further by taking action to strengthen the UK’s supply chains across industry. This will help unlock further growth and increase exports,” said Hall.