Smaller firms are fighting against the downturn in manufacturing, and many can boast booming order books.
According to a recent CBI survey, manufacturing fell over the past four months at the fastest rate since July 1999, but small firms in the sector are more optimistic than most.
Nick Loxton, 38, and Sara Rodgers, 40, know that it is tough to become a successful manufacturer. In 1988 the couple established Leather Chairs of Bath, a business that uses traditional hand-dyed leather to make a range of reproduction chairs and sofas.
Despite industry conditions, the company's sales have increased by 40 per cent in the past three years.
Nick says: "When we set up the company, leather furniture was popular with older customers. By opening up our products to a newer and younger audience, the business has been able to grow continuously."
