Quarter of small firms report improvement in market conditions
Description:
More small businesses experienced an increase in demand for their services and products than those that saw this decline, according to a survey by the Forum of Private Business (FPB).
In the FPB's monthly economic survey 26% of small firms reported a rise in the market for their goods and services, compared to 23% that experienced a decline. Just over 50% of respondents saw no change.
This is the first time since the panel was launched in November that more business owners have experienced positive rather than negative market conditions.
8% of small business also revealed that access to finance had improved - compared with the previous month's survey where not one respondent reported this.
"In order to capitalise on these positive signs, the government must launch a long-term, strategic plan in the forthcoming Budget; one that helps small businesses survive and grow, and become a catalyst to broader economic prosperity," said Phil Orford, FPB chief executive.
