25 October 2019

2019- n° 279

In October 2019, small building firms remain optimistic about their activity prospects Quarterly survey of the building crafts sector - October 2019

In October 2019, business managers of small building firms are more upbeat than in July 2019 about their expected activity. The corresponding balance of opinion has slightly recovered and then remains above its long-term average. In contrast, less business managers of small building firms than in last July have indicated an increase in their past activities. The balance on past 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 weakened. The corresponding balance have fallen back in October after a sharp increase in July. However, 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 but remains above its long-term average.

Conversely, more business managers than in July 2019 havereported an increase in their staff size over the last three months. The corresponding balance has bounced back, moving slightlyabove its long-term average.

In October 2019, 55% of small building firms have experienced recruiting problems – a share slightly on the rise again: it has reached its highest level since July 2007, significantly higher than its long-term average. At the same time, 38% of building craftsmen have indicated training apprentices. This share has increased slightly and has returned to its long-term average.