Business Confidence Falls

18 August 2014
Media Release: For Immediate release

Business Confidence Falls

Business confidence in the Northern region fell dramatically in the latest Chamber of Commerce Survey.

Tauranga Chamber of Commerce CEO David Burnett suggested that there are reasons for concern.

“You could blame it on seasonal issues like winter or on the uncertainty imposed by the general election but there are worrying indicators in play” said Burnett.

Key Findings:

• 29% of firms suggested they are having difficulties getting the right people with the right skills.

• 7% of firms are having difficulty attracting unskilled labour.

• Access to finance and investment continues to be a challenge for some businesses.

• Exporters maintain the high dollar is denying them international opportunities.

• The biggest issue constraining growth in the region is demand, which is flowing through to lower intentions to employ, fewer hours to be worked and lower profitability.

Each of these factors are constraints to growth on their own and the skills issue needs attention from both business and Government the Chamber suggested.

ENDS

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