We are pleased to share with you the latest results from our Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) sponsored by Brabners, providing valuable insights into the current economic landscape affecting our community and industry.
While the QES results reveal the challenges many of our members are continuing to face – particularly around cashflow and skilled workforce shortages – this quarter highlights a fall in both domestic and international sales and future orders.
Key findings include:
• Business confidence still resilient despite monetary pressures
• Manufacturing recruitment concerns continue
• Employment has plateaued in manufacturing but has slightly increased in the service sector
• Cashflow continues to remain a concern for all sectors
• Post-Budget responses more confident when it comes to 2026
Labour costs continue to top the charts for both sectors while concerns over rising utility prices and raw materials remain high, as does recruitment headaches in the market.
We encourage you to review the full survey report attached for a detailed analysis. This data can inform your strategic planning and help identify potential areas for collaboration and support.
As always, our Chamber is committed to advocating on your behalf and providing resources to navigate these times. If you’d like to discuss specific challenges or explore available support programmes, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Read the full report here – QES Q4 report (1)
