The net balance of UK firms forecasting higher levels of business activity in the next year has fallen to 28 % , the lowest figure since October 2009 , according to IHS Markit 's data . This litmus test of corporate confidence demonstrates that many companies are pessimistic over 2020 . Job creation plans are at their most bleak in six years , while employment predictions have dropped to a near - record low due to higher costs and an adverse labour market . Analysts said that the data made for “grim reading”. Nine out of 10 UK manufacturers and 20 % of service companies have commissioned an investigation into the impact of Brexit on their businesses .
The net balance of UK firms forecasting higher levels of business activity in the next year has fallen to 28 % , the lowest figure since October 2009 , according to IHS Markit 's data . This litmus test of corporate confidence demonstrates that many companies are pessimistic over 2020 . Job creation plans are at their most bleak in six years , while employment predictions have dropped to a near - record low due to higher costs and an adverse labour market . Nine out of 10 UK manufacturers and 20 % of service companies have commissioned an investigation into the impact of Brexit on their businesses .