Forklift truck makers are optimistic about the economic outlook, according to a study produced for the British Industrial Truck Association.
Research is carried out by Oxford Economics to inform the twice-yearly economic forecast it produces for BITA members. Scott Livermore of Oxford Economics, said: “Although output in 2011 has been weaker than expected and the statistics indicate that manufacturing activity is expected to remain sluggish this year, evidence provided by the BITA members themselves provides room for cautious optimism for the sector.
“Order books and actual sales in the sector appear to be in better shape than the macroeconomic position would suggest. Although manufacturing felt the brunt of the weaker-than-expected second half of 2011, with growth averaging just 0.5 per cent compared to an expected 2 per cent last September, survey data has picked up over the last six months. This has been helped by a rebound in new orders, both total and export orders.”
* David Rowell, of Hyster has taken over at president of BITA from Doosan’s Tim Waples, who has completed his two year term.
Speaking at the assolciation’s AGM, Rowell said: “Tim has presided over BITA at a time of much change in our industry. All of it has been extremely positive, particularly the continuing recovery from the depths of recession and the launch of an industry apprenticeship scheme under the aegis of the BITA Academy at City of Bristol College.
“His will be a hard act to follow but I am committed to playing my part in achieving BITA’s aim of ‘lifting industry standards’ for the benefit of BITA members.”
