The latest survey from BPIF suggests growth ahead
The latest Printing Outlook survey from BPIF has been released. It shows the UK printing industry matched downbeat expectations for Q2, as far as output and orders are concerned – fortunately the forecasts for Q3 suggest some growth ahead.
33% of printers increased output levels in the second quarter of 2018. A further 32% held output steady whilst 35% experienced a decline in output. The report also found a consistent reduction in commercial print run-lengths and an increase in ordering delays.
A poor performance in Q2 has not restricted the forecast for Q3. Printers expect output growth to bounce back in Q3 with a strong performance. 41% of respondents predict that they will increase output levels in Q3, a further 41% expect output levels to hold steady.
Competitors’ pricing below cost continues to be the most voiced business concern, with paper and board price worries remaining second ranked. Profit levels, poor output prices, access to skilled labour, Brexit and late payment were also noted as industry concerns.
