May News in Brief
º The latest surveys of the UK manufacturing sector point to continued strengthening, with the CBI reporting new orders as being the strongest for a decade (except for a short period in 2004), while the CIPS/RBS Purchasing Managers’ Index reports a sharp increase in output during April with prices rising to near-record levels.
º PIX Europe has bought Flexequip Hydraulics, a supplier of hydraulic fittings, adaptors, hose assemblies and accessories, based in Northern Ireland, and has renamed it PIX-Flexequip Hydraulics. PIX Europe is a subsidiary of the Indian belt and hose manufacturer, PIX Transmissions.
º Bristol-based Rencol Tolerance Rings is setting up a trading company in China, in partnership with other members of the Wyko Group, including Revolvo Precision Products. Rencol expects its Chinese business to expand by 40% this year and by a similar amount in 2008.
º Renishaw has bought a 20% stake in the CAD/CAM developer Delcam, for £6.1m. The investment will be used to fund expansion of Delcam’s business and is expected to lead to a closer co-operation between the two companies.
