FX.co ★ UK Manufacturing Order Books Stagnate as CBI Indicator Holds at -45 in July

The outlook for UK manufacturing remained unchanged in July, as the CBI Industrial Trends Orders indicator held steady at -45. The reading matches June 2026’s level of -45, indicating that order books are still significantly below normal rather than showing signs of either further deterioration or recovery.

The unchanged figure suggests that UK manufacturers continue to face a weak demand environment, with no visible improvement in new orders month-on-month. While stability may offer some relief after prior declines, the persistence of such a negative reading underlines ongoing pressure on the sector.

The latest data, updated on 23 July 2026, will be closely watched by investors and policymakers for clues on the momentum in UK industry and its potential drag on broader economic performance in the second half of the year.