Britain's manufacturing output has sharply declined for the first time since 2016, as reported by Make UK. This drop in activity from January to March indicates troubling trends in an industry already hit hard by rising costs and a challenging global trade environment. Many manufacturers are now reconsidering staffing needs amidst reduced domestic and export orders. Make UK's survey reveals decreasing business confidence, with significant numbers planning hiring freezes or layoffs. The overall manufacturing output is predicted to decrease by 0.5% this year, emphasizing the sector's struggle against external and internal economic pressures.
Britain's manufacturing output has slipped into reverse gear for the first time since 2016, triggering fresh alarm over the health of one of the economy's core industrial pillars.
According to the industry body Make UK, activity among manufacturers fell sharply from January to March, an 'ominous' sign made all the more striking by the fact that production is typically higher in the first quarter of a calendar year.
Stephen Phipson, Make UK's chief executive, warned that a slump in both domestic and export orders is now forcing manufacturers to rethink staffing.
Make UK's survey shows employment readings have dipped into negative territory for the first time in four years, with 27 per cent of firms expecting to reduce headcount.
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