Manufacturing output in the Eurozone grew strongly in January.
This was the best surge since mid-2011.
As predictable, Germany experienced the best growth during the month.
France, on the other hand, saw its rate of contraction slow down, but without moving into growth. But Greece joined with Spain, Italy, the Netherlands and Ireland all saw increases in orders and production.
All countries in the survey reported an increase in exports, with new orders rising at their fastest pace for nearly three years.
Growth was higher than predicted by analysts and has encouraged manufacturers to employ more staff.
Despite this, eurozone unemployment remains stubbornly high at an average 12% in the region and 15% in Portugal.
