The metal articles industry , which to a large extent is a components industry with many suppliers of intermediate products, is expected to achieve a growth rate of 3 percent this year, well above the long-term average growth of 1.7 percent. All Orgalime members in the metal goods sector are expected to register positive growth in output in 2006. Activity has risen markedly in some of the Nordic countries whereas Italy, France and the UK report below average growth for the sector. Exports have been a key factor supporting growth in 2006, with total exports reaching 7 percent in volume. At a sub sector level, metal containers, metal tanks and traditional treatment and coating of metals are performing well, while some countries are still reporting a high pressure on suppliers to the automotive sector. In 2007, moderate growth of output at the level of the sector’s long term average is expected.

Picture Courtesy of Orgalime