MOST smaller manufacturers expect to increase sales in the coming months, according to a new study.

A survey of more than 800 small to medium-sized manufacturers in England found that most planned to invest in equipment, with companies looking to spend an average of 112,000.

Almost two-thirds reported an increase in sales over the past six months, and three out of four expected the trend to continue between now and the summer.

The Manufacturing Advisory Service said its research pointed to a major investment drive to meet expected new demand.

Steven Barr, head of the service, said: "There is a definite feel-good factor around English manufacturing at the moment.

"Investment is crucial if we are going to take advantage of reshoring and predicted growth in markets such as offshore wind, renewables and low-carbon vehicles."