Euromap says eastern Europe fuelling growth for polymer machinery makers

Frankfurt, Germany-During the second half of 2005, business conditions for European makers of plastics and rubber machinery improved, according to the latest EUROMAP Business Trends Survey.

"New order income was certainly more buoyant than in the first half of the year with strongest growth reported in eastern Europe," said a recent statement from Euromap, the association of polymer machinery suppliers in Europe.

Of companies active in eastern Europe, 41 percent reported increased new order activity while only 12 percent were experiencing declines. Euromap said "An encouraging revitalisation was also evident in Western Europe, where 31 percent of companies reported new order growth.

Demand from China remained "comparatively sluggish" said the association, with 24 percent reporting growth and 21 percent reporting declines.

For the first half of 2006, Euromap reports growing optimism, with 43 percent of companies predicting better turnover, and the highest hopes resting on Eastern Europe. North America and Asia are also viewed favourably with 39 percent and 29 percent respectively anticipating.

And Euromap said for the second half of 2006 even greater confidence is evident: only 9 percent of companies expect lower turnover while nearly half predict growth.

Nevertheless, around 60 percent of Euromap members do not expect this growth to convert into improved profits.