EXPORTERS in the North West are experiencing a fall in confidence for the first time since November 1998.
That's according to the latest DHL quarterly export indicator which has monitored the outlook of leading UK manufacturing exporters for the past eight years.
Polling revealed that 39 per cent of North West exporters forecast an increase in their orders in the coming three months compared with 54 per cent last quarter.
The fall in confidence is accompanied by an increase in concern about the strength of the pound among exporters in the North West.
This quarter, 67 per cent cited exchange rates as the most important factor on sales compared with 63 per cent last quarter.
David Coles from DHL commented: "It is certainly concerning to see export confidence falling in the North West.
"In essence, this hinges on the value of sterling so hopefully the recent fall in the value of the pound against the Euro and the dollar will mean this is a short-lived effect."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article