The latest Business Confidence survey for the Northern Region Chambers of Commerce reflects stability.
The survey of more than 1100 respondents across the top half of the North Island showed little change from last quarter with 45% expecting conditions to remain the same over the next six months compared to 44% from the previous survey.
Auckland's SME (Small and Medium Enterprise) sector made up the largest single cohort of this survey and displayed a changing view of business confidence.
“Confidence amongst Auckland business showed a 10% improvement on last quarter,” said Chamber CEO Michael Barnett.
“This in part reflects the move from winter into summer and the start of the holiday season, but it is a positive,” said Barnett.
“Despite this, the survey reveals elements of uncertainty that SME’s are having within a changing business environment.”
The survey also clearly illustrated a frustration for businesses trying to employ talent - with close to half reporting difficulty finding skilled and specialist employees.
When asked to name the top three issues impacting negatively on their business the responses were as follows:
Northern Region Chamber: Tax increases (eg Fuel Tax), Compliance and Labour Laws
Auckland Chamber: Tax increases (eg Fuel Tax), Traffic Congestion and Labour Laws.
The survey also asked Auckland businesses if they had increased prices for their goods or services as a result of increased fuel prices. Almost 40% indicated that they had, with the balance of businesses indicating they were yet to react.
For more information, please contact Cambridge Chamber of Commerce.
