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A 0.2 per cent increase in manufacturing output has been reported by the ONS for April, signalling an improvement in the wake of the economic downturn.
Graeme Allinson, head of manufacturing, transport and logistics for Barclays Commercial Bank, explained that the rise may have come about as a result of retailers attempting to replenish their stocks after the end of winter.
And he suggested that an upturn may be imminent for UK producers, remarking: "Diversification, cost management and above all experience of tough times in the past will see British manufacturing turning the corner."
In addition, Mr Allinson noted, the figures come on the back of the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply's Purchasing Managers Index for May, which indicated that firms are stocking up on goods.
