UK keeps third slot in EU transmission market

The UK`s share of the Europe`s total production of mechanical power transmission components fell by 1% in 1999 to 9%. Despite the slip, the UK remained the third largest producer behind Germany, which raised its share by 1% to 51%, and Italy, which also climbed by 1% to 28%.

The figures come from the British Gear Association`s latest annual report on the European mechanical power transmission industry. In terms of demand, Germany also accounts for 51% of the European market (up from 50% in 1998), with Italy on 20% and the UK on 13% (both unchanged).

Across Europe, the total value of production in this sector rose slightly to £5.48bn while purchases slipped marginally to £3.92bn. Europe`s mechanical power transmission industry - which includes manufacturers of gears, gearboxes, chains and other components - employs around 60,000 people.

More details from the BGA on (44) 01283 515841.