Master Cutler predicts recovery

Date: 19th August 2009

Small manufacturing businesses have been offered advice on how best to keep accounts sound in the credit crunch by the master cutler of Sheffield.

Martin Howell believes that some firms are currently enhancing their order books through taking extra holidays, the Yorkshire Post reported.

The expert advised small business leaders to improve the health of their balance sheets and their general business processes in order to profit from the eventual economic upturn.

Recent signs of "green shoots" have appeared in France and Germany, with both nations returning to GDP growth in April-June 2009.

This has increased speculation that the recession could soon be over in the UK.

"With economic recovery just beginning to show itself, now is the time for companies to work even harder to prepare themselves," Mr Howell said.

"Remember, when the signs of recovery are strong - that is, when customers start buying again in larger quantities - then it will seem like the Wild West all over again as firms jostle for raw materials, skilled staff and a realistic cash flow."

The master cutler is the elected leader of the Company of Cutlers in Hallamshire - and has the primary role of promoting industry in the city.

This position was first established in 1624.

Mr Howell is the former head of Corus, a large British steelmaking firm.