South West manufacturers cautious over Brexit but have optimism for the longer term

Concerns over Brexit are stifling South West manufacturers’ export growth, according to new figures.

The South West Manufacturing Barometer reveals manufacturers’ fears over ongoing Brexit uncertainty.

The barometer is part of a survey of the SME manufacturing sector conducted by SWMAS (part of the Exelin Group).

‘The picture emerging from our research is of a sector focused on consolidating what they already have for at least the next 12 months, by when we will finally know what a post-Brexit UK will look like," said Simon Howes, of the Exelin Group.

‘Whilst South West manufacturers’ cautiousness about export growth amidst the current chaos is no shock, it is encouraging to see their ambitions for 2020.

‘Not only does this reflect the vision of our region’s manufacturers, it also shows that for a large and influential part of our economy there are many optimistic signs of life after Brexit.’