Brexit impasse takes toll on business investment

Tied-up capital: SPE has stockpiled steel amid uncertainty surrounding Brexit in preparation for any possible business disruption. — Reuters

AS uncertainty over Brexit spills into its fourth year, Swiftool Precision Engineering has taken a tough investment decision: it will press ahead with a plan to spend £250,000 (RM1.3mil) on a 3D printer but a new workshop roof will have to wait.

Like many British companies, the small, family-owned firm which makes parts for aircraft engines and offshore oil wells wants more clarity on what leaving the European Union might mean for its business before carrying out all its investment plans.