A slight decline was recorded PMI (Purchasing Managers Index) in the manufacturing industry in May 2023, amounting to 51.5 units. compared to 52.4 pcs. in April 2023. The reason for this decline, according to S&P Global, which makes up the corresponding index, is a more moderate increase in new orders received by Greek manufacturing companies. On the other hand, it is encouraging that, on the one hand, when demand conditions improved, orders from new customers appeared, and on the other hand, an increase in the new amount of new sales was stimulated by an increase in new sales. orders for export. In fact, May 2023 saw the strongest increase in new export orders since February 2022.

The fall in input prices (primary and recycled materials, etc.) was sharp overall and the sharpest in three years. Along with the reduction in supplier prices, companies also noted a reduction in electricity costs. In an effort to increase sales and pass on lower entry prices to buyers, Greek manufacturers have recorded a reduction in exit fees, the fees they charge on their products. This decline ended a 28-month period of continuous growth as realized prices fell at the fastest pace since November 2020.

A further increase in production needs triggered a new round of hiring by Greek goods manufacturers in May. Employment grew at a moderate pace, as companies pointed to a strong increase in new orders supporting growth. However, the pace of job creation fell to a three-month low as some companies reported they had enough workforce to handle the new vacancies.

Finally, Greek manufacturers remained particularly optimistic in their production outlook over the next 12 months. Companies forecast production growth, optimism stems from hopes for increased consumer demand and planned investment in new products.