Demand for British-made goods is rising, giving UK manufacturers a stronger commercial position at a time when the wider sector is also showing signs of recovery.
Buyers are placing more value on where products are made. That gives UK manufacturers a clearer way to stand out, especially when they can prove quality, traceability and reliable local production.
The wider manufacturing backdrop has also improved. The UK manufacturing PMI rose to 53.7 in April, its highest level in almost four years. Output, new orders and employment all increased, showing that activity strengthened across the sector.
Domestic and overseas demand both improved, with export orders helped by customers in markets including the United States, China, Japan and India. Some buyers also appear to have brought orders forward to avoid delays and higher costs, which may support short-term activity but also creates a risk that demand could soften later.
Likewise Group PLC (LON:LIKE) is a distributor of floorcoverings and matting and has the opportunity to consolidate the domestic and commercial floorcovering markets to become one of the UK’s largest distributors in this sector.
