26 October 2017

2017- n° 283

In October 2017, building craftsmen are less optimistic about the business prospects Quarterly survey of the building crafts sector - October 2017

In October 2017, far fewer building craftsmen than in July have indicated an increase in their past activity. The corresponding balance has fallen back sharply after a significant rise in July and has returned to its long-term average. The balance on expected activity has faltered but remains above its long-term average. For the first time since January 2015, craftsmen are less optimistic than in the previous quarter about the general business outlook in the building sector. The corresponding balance has slipped back after jumping in July, while remaining well above its long-term average.

Slightly fewer craftsmen than in July 2017 forecast to raise their staff size over the next few months. The corresponding balance of opinion has fallen back but still stands well above its long-term average. However, more craftsmen than in July have indicated an increase in their past staff size. The corresponding balance exceeds its long-term average even more.

In October 2017, 40% of craftsmen have experienced recruiting problems, more than last quarter and almost as many as on long-term average (41%). At the same time, 40% of craftsmen have indicated training apprentices, a share slightly higher than on long-term average.