26 April 2018

2018- n° 110

In April 2018, the economic climate is less favourable in the building crafts sector Quarterly survey of the building crafts sector - April 2018

In April 2018, slightly fewer building craftsmen than in January have indicated an increase in their past activity. The corresponding balance has slipped back a little. That on expected activity has also fallen back, markedly, after a sharp increase in January. Both balances of opinion remain however above their long-term average.

Nevertheless, craftsmen remain almost as optimistic as in January about the general business outlook in the building sector: the corresponding balance is virtually stable, far above its long-term average.

Fewer craftsmen than in January 2018 plan to raise their staff size over the next few months. The corresponding balance has decreased sharply while remaining above its long-term average. Likewise, fewer craftsmen have indicated an increase in their staff size over the last few months. The corresponding balance has decreased again and has returned to its long-term average.

In April 2018, 45% of craftsmen have experienced recruiting problems, that is more than on long-term average for the first time since January 2009. At the same time, 37% of craftsmen have indicated training apprentices, a share close to its long-term average.