November data highlighted a fourth successive monthly fall in West Midlands output, according to new research.
The NatWest PMI report, a seasonally adjusted index that measures the month-on-month change in the combined output of the West Midlands' manufacturing and service sectors, said the rate of contraction quickened from October. It slipped from 49.6 to 48.8, the report said.
Companies that signalled a reduction in output mentioned lower sales, high stock levels at clients and subdued market confidence.
