December data highlighted a marginal expansion of UK private sector output, driven by another solid increase in manufacturing production. In contrast, overall levels of service sector activity stagnated at the end of 2020, largely due to ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) restrictions on hospitality, leisure and travel businesses. The latest survey also indicated severe pressure on manufacturing supply chains, which was overwhelmingly linked to freight delays following congestion at UK ports. Around 45% of the survey panel reported longer wait times from suppliers, while only 2% saw an improvement. The ... (full story)