Orders up for Scottish companies

Companies are having to cope with steep rises in costs

A survey of Scottish manufacturers has shown an increase in confidence about the future.

The industrial trends study found that the growth in orders over the past three months exceeded expectations.

Foreign demand was particularly strong among the 38 firms who took part in the survey and many expect export orders to grow at their fastest rate since 2007.

Costs rose steeply for companies during the last quarter and all said they had no plans to hire more staff.

Iain McMillan, director of CBI Scotland, said: "The surge in industrial firms' optimism and in investment intentions for the coming year is particularly welcome.

"However there can be no room for complacency, as challenges and risks do remain. Policy makers can assist, which is why the devolved government for example must use its own upcoming Spending Review to enhance the prospects for future economic growth."