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Confidence in the SME Sector drops 5%

The results of the ISME Quarterly Business Trends Survey for Q2’18 showed a slight improvement on Q1’18. 7 out of 12 confidence indicators showed declines, an improvement on 10 out of 12 in the previous quarter. Business Confidence continues to decline dropping by a further 5% this quarter. Brexit remains the biggest concern for SMEs followed by economic uncertainty.

Our latest data shows:

  • Business confidence down 5%.
  • Brexit and economic uncertainty biggest issue for SMEs
  • 28% of businesses have inadequate broadband.
  • 58% of businesses expect to increase wage rates.
  • 83% of businesses report an increase to their motor insurance.
  • 59% of Owner-Managers stated the would not increase their own earnings.

The Retail sector for Q2’18 reported Brexit and Economic Uncertainty as its biggest concerns. 6 out of 10 confidence indicators reported a decline.

The Services sector reported healthy returns for Q2’18. 9 out of 12 confidence indicators showed positive gains, a reversal on the 10 out of 12 decreases in the last quarter.                                              

The Exports sector for Q2’18 shows a decline in 7 out of 12 confidence indicators, a slight improvement on Q1’18.

The Manufacturing sector Q2’18 results for the manufacturing sector show a reversal on last quarter’s results. 8 out of 12 confidence indicators show declines. Three indicators showed improvements. One confidence indicator remained unchanged.

The results our latest Trends data will be sent to respective government departments and will act as a key tool in our lobbying efforts. Further information on this report can be found here.