Survey demonstrates a ‘degree of confidence’ among BITA members

It revealed that 85% of respondents feel general prospects for the coming 12 months remain unchanged and 15% feel prospects have improved. No one feels ‘less optimistic’ for the next 12 months, compared to half of respondents in the last survey during Autumn.

BITA said that optimism is now returning after overall optimism in the Outlook report of May 2016 was high before dipping in the Autumn report.

Attitudes to sales have also improved and views on orders remained positive. Meanwhile, concerns around pricing have eased, although the expectation continues to be that prices will rise due to the devaluation of sterling.

Counterbalance orders have also recovered a little after major falls registered last year, growing 3.6% year-on-year in Q1 2017. However, it is not anticipated this will continue as investment struggles.

The Outlook report was produced by Oxford Economics on behalf of BITA.

BITA secretary-general James Clark said: “The previous Forklift Truck Market Outlook and members’ survey showed our members’ mood moderating as Brexit uncertainty continues – and forecast overall weaker economic sentiment as the industry digested the referendum.

“However this latest Outlook and survey has demonstrated a degree of confidence among our members, with none saying they felt less optimistic for the coming 12 months. This coupled with an improved attitude to sales makes for quite an optimistic picture overall.

“But we shouldn’t be complacent, there is still the great unknown of Brexit to come – and there are issues around investment which are affecting Counterbalance orders which are a potential cause for concern.”