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Short-lived sales high
The number of manufacturers reporting increased sales and orders in UK markets at the end of last year was at its highest since 2004, according to the latest survey of Greater Manchester businesses.
The research for the final quarter of 2007 also revealed confidence about improved profitability over the next year had risen to its highest level for three years.
However, the survey showed that increases in export sales and orders had tapered off as had confidence over increasing turnover.
Adam Howell, of Greater Manchester Chamber, said: "Last year was a very good one for businesses, but the outlook is less positive."
A need for languages
ONE in five manufacturing companies has lost out on business because their staff cannot speak a foreign language.
According to research released today by the Teach Yourself Business Languages Series, 16% of companies in the sector feel that they would benefit from a foreign language speaker in their organisation and 23% would actively hire a candidate who could speak a second language over one who could not.
The survey also found that over a fifth of manufacturing companies would consider offering employees who speak a foreign language extra incentives, including a higher salary.
Awards for the young
THE Federation of Small Businesses is including two special categories in its British Small Business Champions Awards.
The Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award is for individuals who are aged 21 years and under at the time of entering and the Most Promising New Business Award is for businesses which were started after November 1 2006. The awards the increasing number of young people who have started their own business.
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Friday 10 February 2012
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