Kirklees manufacturers have reported a boost in business.

Latest soundings among member firms by the Calderdale and Kirklees Manufacturers Alliance suggest that after five years of reduced sales, “decimated” profit margins and struggling aghainst late payment, better times may be ahead.

Chairman Gary Smith said: “Members are now saying there seems to be – in certain areas – a good upturn in orders.”

He added: “Those manufacturers who are members of CKMA benefited from lots of support through the recession – being told as soon as any grants, support or advice relating to manufacturing were released.

“Working closely with UKTI, ways of getting sales in new markets were explored while the Manufacturing Advisory Service teamed up with members to run cost-reduction and efficient manufacturing projects, which a number found invaluable to ensure they could match or beat their competitors’ quotes.

“Both councils came up trumps too, offering grants, loans and even found a few companies more factory space. The University of Huddersfield, too, went to members and free of charge did projects and found ways to improve products to ensure they had that extra edge to win new business.”

Mr Smith said: “Thanks to all this support and good management, most West Yorkshire manufacturers survived the recession and have also been laying the foundations for growth and prosperity in the new market place we are emerging into after the recession.

“The new market place is one that has matured and expects its suppliers to have become that bit more special and responsive to customer needs, with new better products at very competitive prices and delivery time scales to suit the customers’ ever demanding requirements.

“CKMA is now gearing itself to ensure that all its members are well placed to grab the new business opportunities as they come, be able to upscale and ensure they gain maximum profits.

“Members are now buying more locally, which they are all saying is giving unexpected benefits, as their suppliers often tip them off about new business opportunities. Stock levels are not too large and delivery times are a lot quicker than from the Far East!”

Mr Smith, a director of Huddersfield specialist glazing firm Novaglaze, highlighted the examples of excellence among local manufacturers who hosted factory tours for CKMA members, adding: “ Best practice groups are now flourishing, talking specific issues such as implementing the new pensions and health and safety in the workplace, where the companies discuss what works for them and how to achieve the best results quickly and without too much cost.

“What is becoming clear is that the small manufacturers can help the local big companies and this in turn is both good for the small manufacturers as well as the local economy too.”