COMPANIES in the North-west are experiencing mixed fortunes, according to the latest survey of the region's businesses.
The Quarterly Economic Survey, carried out by Chambers of Commerce in the North-west, shows manufacturers enjoyed improved sales in the UK market, but a drop in orders. Those who exported reported a slight improvement in both orders and sales.
In the service sector, the number of firms reporting an increase in sales has fallen, while orders have remained static. Fewer firms are attempting to recruit and those that are recruiting have experienced increased difficulty. Confidence improved slightly, continuing the stability in business confidence of the last 12months.
The picture for manufacturing is different, with a decline in confidence about turnover, but a rise in confidence of profitability.
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