More than 50% of the industrys machinery suppliers are struggling to remain confident about future trading, according to Picons latest quarterly survey.
Results released last week showed that 58% of suppliers were less optimistic about the future, compared with 31% in the first quarter of 2001. A similar trend was evident in export prospects with 31% of suppliers less optimistic, compared with just 16% in the first quarter.
The pessimism comes as Picon members reported a drop in orders, with 58% of UK suppliers facing a quarter-to-quarter decline. Exporters fared only slightly better, with 45% reporting a decline last quarter.
The survey also found that nearly 60% of members thought Britain should "wait and see" before joining the single European currency.
Have your say in the Printweek Poll
Related stories
Latest comments
"Utilities, paper and ink but probably not transport, couriers, finisher’s for example"
"Bound to be, most likely those not key suppliers along with HMRC"
"And now watch for those reversion charges to come in thick and fast, for the slightest deviation from the mailing specification 😉😂"
Up next...
Expected to complete Q1 2025
RRD to acquire Williams Lea
Launched earlier this year
Format Graphics in world-first Agfa Jeti Bronco install
No joy finding strategic partner
Expansion fuelled CB Printforce UK collapse
Anticipated to close Q1 2025