Mon, 17 Apr 2017 | BUSINESS NEWS
Britain’s companies enjoyed a decent start to the year and are heading into spring with confidence, in positive news for the economy in the wake of the vote to leave the EU.
The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) said its members were growing in confidence about turnover and profitability, although concerns remain over employment and inflationary pressure.
Responses from more than 7,000 businesses show “solid growth” in the manufacturing and services sectors, with both enjoying rises in domestic and export sales compared to the final quarter of 2016.
Manufacturing was singled out as doing particularly well, especially in the exports market, with higher numbers of firms reporting improved sales and orders than in previous quarters.
In services, while performance “has not returned to historic trend levels”, it is improving from its decline in the two quarters immediately following the EU referendum, the BCC said.
However, the rising cost of raw materials and overheads, inflationary pressures and recruitment difficulties are still causing problems for firms.
Dr Adam Marshall, BCC director-general, said short term prospects for business look strong, but warned about what could lie ahead.
“In the here and now, many businesses are resilient and experiencing solid growth. Many firms tell us their short-term expectations are strong, but that the medium-term picture is far from clear.
“The rise in inflation seen since last year's EU referendum is the biggest immediate pressure facing most firms. While manufacturers have enjoyed a good quarter, they are facing higher costs at the factory gates, which increasingly translates into companies having to raise their own prices.
“With inflation already above the Bank of England’s target, this squeeze on firms looks set to continue in the medium term.”
Subscribe to the Business Sale Report here
Presenting an opportunity to acquire a very profitable plumbers and heating merchants business operating nationwide.
Popular and well-regarded Sushi and Ramen restaurant and takeaway, which is situated in a prime city centre location in Norwich. The premises are set over three floors and are presented to an extremely high standard throughout and offers the opportun...
LEASEHOLD
Established respected business, holding valuable private and public sector client base, there being a number of key clients, some paying a retainer and from which regular repeat business is received ensuring a substantial pipeline figure.
26
|
Apr
|
Major double glazing firm Everest enters administration | ADMINISTRATION
Everest, one of the largest providers of double-glazing in t...
26
|
Apr
|
Kent-based scientific consultancy sold to US firm | BUSINESS SALE
A4P Consulting Limited, a scientific consultancy company hea...
25
|
Apr
|
Ambulance services provider acquired in pre-pack deal | BUSINESS SALE
Elite Emergency Medical Services Ltd (Elite EMS), an ambulan...
26
|
Apr
|
Kent-based scientific consultancy sold to US firm | BUSINESS SALE
A4P Consulting Limited, a scientific consultancy company hea...
26
|
Apr
|
Major double glazing firm Everest enters administration | ADMINISTRATION
Everest, one of the largest providers of double-glazing in t...
25
|
Apr
|
New private equity owner for fleet hire firm | BUSINESS SALE
West Lancashire-based fleet hire business NRG Riverside has ...
Business Sale Report is your complete solution to finding great acquisition opportunities.
Join today to receive:
All this and much more, including the latest M&A news and exclusive resources
Please choose your settings for this site below. For more information please read our Cookie Policy
These cookies are necessary for our website to function properly and provide you with access to all features.
These are analytics cookies that help us to improve the way our website works.
These are used to improve the functional performance of the website and make it easier for you to use.