"Despite the poor economic climate around the world we are not seeing a downturn for our business, in fact we are seeing the opposite, and with the weaker pound, there are definitely good opportunities out there for UK manufacturers."

So says Terry Monkton, Managing Director of UK based Simworx, a world leader in the design and supply of simulation attraction and effects theatres, which has reported very strong order books going into 2009 and an increasing number of inquiries for its wide range of film based products.

"There is no doubt that the simulation and effects theatre sector is in good shape to deal with the economic situation we are all having to cope with," he continued.

"From Simworx's point of view our business has increased dramatically in recent months, which is both a reflection on the type and quality of products we have available as well as on the fact that the weaker pound is playing into the hands of overseas buyers.

"Products have become 25 per cent cheaper for buyers in the US compared to a year ago while they are also around 15 per cent cheaper for customers in mainland Europe. So while the economy is struggling, we are seeing certain benefits. Also, Simworx is a global company working in all parts of the world, but the whole world isn't in decline. So we are still seeing strong interest from countries throughout Asia, the Middle East and elsewhere."

And Monkton also points to the fact that parks and visitor attractions of all types must continually invest in new attractions and facilities as another positive for manufacturers serving the industry.

"As has always been the case, operators need to add new attractions on a regular basis to ensure their visitors keep coming back and we are not seeing any less activity in this respect. Significant investments are still being made. Even in the hardest of economic times people want to enjoy a day out every now and again, so hopefully the faith being shown by operators will be rewarded by healthy visitor numbers."