Local investment company asks if the region’s economy will take advantage of improving conditions.

With news that the German and French economies – Britain’s key European trading partners – have grown in the last quarter, confidence among British manufacturing is at highest in years.

That is in spite of the fact that British manufacturing has endured a disappointing second quarter, the expectation being that output will most likely stabilise over the next three months and new orders to contract at a slower pace. But are manufacturing SMEs in a position to ride this wave of optimism, asks manufacturing SME investment and management specialist Advent Partners LLP?

Headed up by Institute For Turnaround members Andrew Ramsbottom and David Gee – whom between them have 40 years of operational, finance and commercial experience – Advent is looking to repeat invest in Midlands-based manufacturing or product-based businesses with up to £15 million turnover requiring capital and support management.

Managing Partner Andrew Ramsbottom said: “We of course very much welcome the good news surrounding UK manufacturing we’ve had lately and are confident it will continue – there’s a real buzz about the industry that hasn’t been there for quite some time.

“But there’s a danger that some manufacturing businesses might be left behind if they don’t get the guidance they need. Yes, we’re investors, but we believe that the investor is as important as the investment itself. That means we look to add value through our vast experience in getting out the best in businesses to help them fulfil their potential.

“We can also spot opportunities that they might not. The German economy has been able to recover because of its strong trading links with growing economies outside the Eurozone such as Brazil as well as established economies such as the US and China. Our experience and contacts in these areas will be vital to repeating the kind of success German and French manufacturers have had lately.”

Advent specialises in providing private funding of up to £0.5 million per transaction to unlock potential and maximise future development and always holds an equity position within the business providing management support, driving change and delivering success.