26 July 2019

2019- n° 194

In July 2019, optimism of small building firms about the general business outlook of the sector strengthens Quarterly survey of the building crafts sector - July 2019

In July 2019, many more business managers of small building firms than in April 2019 have indicated an increase in their past activity. The corresponding balance of opinion has increased again sharply and has returned to its January 2018 level, above its long-term average. In contrast, the balance on expected activity has slipped back but remains above its long-term average.

Building craftsmen’s optimism about the general business outlook in the building sector has strengthened. While it had decreased from April 2018 to January 2019, the corresponding balance had bounced back sharply in April 2019 and has increased again in July. It stands well above its long-term average.

The balance of opinion on development of staff size over the last three months has slipped back and has gone below its long-term average, returning to its last January level.

Conversely, many more business craftsmen than in April 2019 plan to increase their staff size over the next few months.The corresponding balance has recovered and has exceeded its long-term average more largely, at its highest level since July 2001.

In July 2019, 53% of small building firms have experienced recruiting problems – a share slightly on the rise and that has reached its highest level since July 2008, significantly higher than the long-term average. At the same time, 37% of building craftsmen have indicated training apprentices. This share is stable in July and stands slightly below its long-term average.