Outlook for UK chemical industry remains strong
Over half of the companies expect sales to increase, and a renewed appetite for investment.
The percentage of companies expecting sales to increase (55%) is the highest for 2 years, with only 6% predicting a decline. On jobs a quarter of the companies expect to increase numbers, half no change and a quarter a decrease.
There is further good news on Research & Development expenditure (critical to a UK presence) with almost 90% saying will hold steady or increase. Projected capital investment plans reflect the buoyant trading expectations: 40% intended to increase spending, 45% to maintain levels, and only 15% think there will be lower spending.
On planned investment, 39% said it was for capacity expansion, 16% for improving raw material and energy efficiency, 13% to raise environmental standards, and 32% for general maintenance and refurbishment.
When asked if planned spending would increase their business rates liability. Fewer than 20% said it would, and in none of these cases had the investment decision been affected.
Steve Elliott, Chief Executive of the Chemical Industries Association said “ This latest set of results show that the business leaders across our sector are optimistic in what remains a very challenging trading environment. The cost and security of energy have been a major barrier to our companies. While we welcome the latest announcements in the Budget, the UK has to continue working harder to compete in a global playing field “ He continued “I hope and believe we have turned the corner and as UK chemical investment comes on stream we can again show the world what we can do”.
Notes to Editors:
Chemical Industries Association (CIA) is the organisation that represents chemical and pharmaceutical businesses throughout the UK www.cia.org.uk
A copy of the business survey results is attached.
For further comment please contact Simon Marsh, 07951 389197 or Lena Nunkoo, 07951 388 919
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