UK exports at their highest since recession

UK exports are at their highest since the recession, according to a survey out on Tuesday that will fan hopes the economic recovery is picking up pace. Activity has picked up, exporters are more confident about sales growing and more expect to hire staff this year, according to a report from the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) and postal group DHL. The news comes ahead of official data on Thursday expected to show overall economic growth accelerated in the second quarter of the year to 0.6%, from 0.3% in the first three months. Export sales and orders have gone up, confidence is high and expectations around profitability have increased. Even more businesses have taken on staff this quarter, with many expecting to hire again next quarter,” said the BCC director general, John Longworth. Tuesday’s report suggests exporting activity is at its strongest since the BCC/DHL trade confidence index began in autumn 2007.