31 October 2013
Improvement in orders and output achieved - confidence high for a strong seasonal boost
The third quarter lived up to UK printer expectations according to the results of the latest BPIF Printing Outlook survey. More firms saw a pick up in demand rather than a fall with 31% benefiting from an increase in the volume of orders versus 15% that suffered a drop - the balance between ups and downs was the highest for 11 quarters and the best Q3 reading for nine years. The results mimic the forecast three months earlier and suggest that the UK printing industry is recovering in line with the general economy.
Summary of key findings:
- Orders and output rose as expected in Q3 2013 with further improvement anticipated.
- Sentiment improving as trading conditions pick up.
- Higher rate of capacity utilised with knock-on effect for lead times.
- Increased activity expected to boost employment levels.
- Cut-throat competition leads to further pressure on selling prices for some.
- Costs generally stabilised in the third quarter. Increases in energy prices are the main concern for Q4.
- Stable margins reported by the vast majority; but pressure remains to squeeze margins further.
- Pick up in the export market after weak Q2.
- More investment earmarked for training and innovation.
- Improvement in bank lending noted by some; but bad debt, late payment and extended payment terms on the rise.
Pay Review Data, Wage Benchmarking and Cost of Living – FEB 2024 UPDATE
14 February 2024
We have collated data from multiple sources that should be useful for BPIF members that are approaching internal pay reviews, and/or are having a closer look at their pay and benefits structure. The datafile, first published in February 2023, has been updated with the latest available data - and additional content on factors exerting pressure on pay settlements in 2024.
Slight recovery of output and orders falls short of expectations in Q4 - confidence concerns mount in 2024
22 February 2024
Performance in the UK's printing and printed packaging industry did improve in Q4, as far as output and orders are concerned. However, it didn't come close to what would historically be considered the seasonal norm, nor quite match the subdued expectations for Q4.
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