25 July 2018

2018- n° 196

In July 2018, the economic climate has improved in the building crafts sector Quarterly survey of the building crafts sector - July 2018

In July 2018, more building craftsmen than in April have indicated an increase in their past activity. The corresponding balance of opinion has bounced back and has returned to its level hit at the beginning of the year. Likewise, the balance on expected activity has recovered after falling in April. Both balances have exceeded more largely their long-term average.

However, building craftsmen are less optimistic than in April about the general business outlook in the building sector : the corresponding balance has decreased again while remaining well above its long-term average.

Many more craftsmen than in April 2018 plan to raise their staff size over the next few months. The corresponding balance has bounced back strongly and stands far above its long-term average. Also, more craftsmen have indicated an increase in their staff size over the last few months. The corresponding balance has bounced back and has exceeded its long-term average.

In July 2018, 51% of building craftsmen have experienced recruiting problems, a share ten points higher than its long-term average and the highest in ten years. At the same time, 37% of building craftsmen have indicated training apprentices, a share close to its long-term average.

Data for April 2018 have been revised following a renewal of the survey sample.