A POLL of 5,300 UK businesses by regional development agencies shows manufacturers have the most positive outlook for the next year.
The survey found that 37% expect the climate to improve and 41% believe it will remain stable.
Their optimism is due to better exchange rates helping exporters and improved demand.
Expectations of domestic orders have improved across all sectors, but the manufacturing sector in particular has benefited.
In the North-West, the survey highlighted signs of recovery with more businesses reporting improved performance in the past 12 months.
Steven Broomhead, Northwest Development Agency chief executive, said: “This growing optimism among businesses regionally and nationally is extremely encouraging.
“However, there are no easy quick fixes and we recognise that significant challenges remain regionally and nationally.
“The agency will continue to provide leadership, investment and support.”
