Things are looking up by Adam Hawkins http://anodizeproductions.com

Things are looking up for trading with larger companies.

How can smaller business make the most of this trend?

A growing number of Britain’s manufacturers reported buoyant trading conditions over the past three months.

A new survey published by EEF, the manufacturers’ organisation, and BDO Stoy Hayward said that this is on the back of rising demand in overseas and UK markets.

The second quarter EEF/BDO Manufacturing Outlook report indicates that the broad-based recovery, which began at the end of 2009, has gathered pace. Output and order balances hit their highest levels since the survey began 15 years ago.

According to EEF, manufacturing is responsible for 55% of UK exports and its productivity regularly outpaces economic growth. All of this helps the UK maintain its position as the world’s sixth largest manufacturing nation.

How can smaller businesses benefit?

If you have pulled back from selling to manufacturing businesses because of the recession, now is the time to pick up the threads and start prospecting again. However, be prepared for big businesses to expect longer payment terms so either get agreement for faster payments before you start or factor this into your cash flow so that you don’t get caught out.

For more ideas, take a look at some of our case studies about business recovery.

Do you have examples of business picking up? Let us know ….