Manufacturing sector enjoys 'bumper' growth

Rise in demand boosts output for aerospace and automotive industries

The UK commercial aerospace industry enjoyed a "bumper" April, with a 10% increase in orders, says a report.

The backlog of orders has risen to more than 11,300 aircraft, offering a good platform for the rest of the year, said aerospace trade organisation ADS Group.

The report said 29,000 new large civilian airliners, 24,000 business jets, 5,800 regional aircraft and 40,000 helicopters will be needed by 2032.

Paul Everitt, chief executive of ADS Group, said: "After strong first quarter figures, industry is continuing its efforts to maximise efficiency and increase production rates.

"As we look ahead to the Farnborough International Airshow in July - one of the world's best shop windows for the sector - it is clear UK industry is in a good position to benefit from the substantial increase in demand. Rising passenger traffic and customer focus on efficiency is driving demand for new aircraft."

Meanwhile, UK car production rose 21.3% in April to 133,437 units, the biggest monthly rise since July 2012. Full-scale production of new models has helped boost output at car plants nationwide, with volumes increased by 6.9% for the year to date and January to April exports up 8.7%.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive said: “The thriving nature of the UK car manufacturing industry was evident in April as output grew at its highest rate for almost two years.

“New model introductions are fuelling growth, while Europe – which currently accounts for around half of exports – is now seeing an upturn in demand. As investments continue to be realised, we expect further rises in the coming months; good news for the thousands of suppliers and employees across the country that rely on this industry,” he added.