UK export orders hit four-year high despite rising factory cost pressures

Activity in Britain’s manufacturing sector rose last month and export orders increased by the most in four-and-a-half years, according to a survey that showed steady growth momentum at the start of the year despite stronger cost pressures.

The S&P Global Purchasing Managers’ Index for British manufacturing edged down to 51.7 in February from 51.8 in January, which was the highest since August 2024.

Monday’s reading above 50 denotes growth – and represents the longest string...