The global economic slowdown has claimed its first manufacturing scalp, with news that China's Wuxi Hu-Lift Equipment Co Ltd is about to be liquidated. It's interesting that the first victim is one of the new players from a market known for low prices. There had been fears that the new generation of Chinese forklift makers would take marketshare from the established players and put them under pressure. But now, the better-known brands which have focused on quality, innovation and service will take some comfort in the demise of a low-cost competitor, and many will be encouraged to maintain their pricing structures and their R&D investment as they ride out the economic storm. And speaking of the "R-word", everyone is now watching London for some signs of hope out of the G20 Summit. At this stage, any glimmer of hope will be well received.