The crunch effect triples in six months, survey shows

Oct 22 2009 By Andrew Mernin, The Journal

Online sector less troubled by recession

ALTHOUGH the findings of our latest business survey make for largely gloomy reading, there are some firms who remain optimistic about the year ahead.

Neil Robbins, managing director of Newcastle-based digital agency Silverbean, believes the online sector continues to be buoyant as more traditional marketing firms suffer. He said: "Some traditional marketing companies are perhaps still having a slightly more difficult time than their digital counterparts.

"There seems to be a growing demand for search engine optimisation (SEO) services and companies are still spending money on boosting their online presence."

Meanwhile, Michael Mitten, managing director of engineering group Houghton International, says he is benefiting from the work put in place following the downturn of 2001, and is also optimistic about the future.

He said: "We anticipate that we’ll create more than 40 new jobs over the next two years – built on solid foundations."

And Keith Miller, of excavation equipment manufacturer Miller International, said he recognises the challenges ahead but is bullish about tackling them head on.

"By necessity, our operation is now incredibly lean, but we’re starting to see signs of recovery in the construction industry and we’re in an ideal position to maximise the opportunities when they arise."

Page 3: Output set to rise next quarter