UK Manufacturing Order Books Sink to 6-year Low

2026-06-23 10:20 By Agna Gabriel 1 min. read

The UK’s total order book balance fell to -45 in June 2026 from -41 in May, the lowest since September 2020 and worse than market expectations of -35.

Output volumes dropped across most sectors, with food, drink & tobacco, mechanical engineering, paper, printing & media, and metal products among the hardest hit.

Export demand also weakened, with export order books falling to -33 and remaining well below long-term averages.

Firms continue to describe both domestic and overseas orders as below “normal” levels, reflecting fragile global demand conditions.

Despite the downturn, selling price expectations remain elevated at 22, although this is a sharp easing from May’s 38.

CBI economist Cameron Martin said manufacturers are facing weak demand and high costs, while uncertainty is limiting investment.

He added that stabilisation in energy markets, including progress on US-Iran talks, could eventually ease pressures, but warned that recovery will take time.



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