Business continuity planning 'is on the rise'

The Engineering Employers Federation (EEF) has carried out research that shows the nation's industrial firms are looking to shore up production through business continuity planning, in response to supply risks.

An estimated 60 per cent of companies have seen their supply chain disrupted by local concerns, while a further 82 per cent have suffered as a result of the recession.

Indeed, the latest data from the Office for National Statistics indicates that the national economy contracted by 0.7 per cent in the second quarter of 2012, which means the UK is currently in the longest double-dip recession it has endured in over five decades.

Chief economist at the EEF Lee Hopley said supply chains have become increasingly globalised for manufacturers.

"We need to capitalise on this opportunity by removing obstacles for manufacturers looking to expand capacity or diversify into new areas and by creating a business environment that pulls in every pound," she commented.