PEOPLE & SKILLS
country . A sentiment underlined by the fact manufacturing generates between 11 and 12 percent of the UK ’ s overall wealth , 60 percent of exports and 2.6 million jobs .
On the other hand , global manufacturing must be cautious with its optimism . The closely-watched ISM index of US factories tumbled far below expectations . It ’ s the lowest since the depths of the crisis in mid- 2009 and a clear sign that US budget cuts are starting to squeeze the economy . The news came just hours after HSBC said its index for China had also fallen , a major inflexion point for the world ’ s industrial workshop . Spotlight on innovation
From conversations with partners and customers , it ’ s evident that businesses are confident in their own ability to drive growth and they have identified a number of opportunities to help deliver it . For the majority of UK manufacturers , innovation plays a critical role with 82 percent considering it “ important ” in helping achieve growth in 2013 and beyond , according to the findings of SAP ’ s Manufacturing Success research . Despite all the signs pointing towards a continued investment in innovation , manufacturers appear to be divided on the merits . Some organisations remain focussed on investing to innovate and grow , while
SAP Manufacturing : Production Efficiency
PLAY
16 November 2015