Turnover is increasing for 56 per cent of the Thames Valley businesses which took part in the survey
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Business Barometer shows optimistic forecast
By David MillwardJanuary 16, 2013
Businesses in the region are starting the New Year with a more optimistic outlook.
The BDO Business Barometer for the fourth quarter (Q4) reveals 30 per cent of businesses believe confidence has improved, compared with 18 per cent in the previous quarter.
More than half of respondents say turnover and new business is increasing and firms are still investing in the future.
However, businesses need to be innovative, flexible and responsive if they are to continue growing, the report says.
Finance for investment continues to be a problem for many firms, but the consensus is there is no issue for businesses with a strong and robust business plan.
Simon Brooker, partner and head of BDO Thames Valley based in King’s Road, Reading, said: “The emphasis on the need for robustness is a marked change we’ve seen building over the year with a ‘flight to quality’ as lenders appear to have a much clearer aversion to risk.
“All of the indicators suggest that the economy will gradually get better but that there will certainly be more ups and downs along the way. This was very much reflected in the results of Q4’s report.
“However, with austerity measures predicted to continue until 2018, businesses must keep the pressure on and fight back.
“I am delighted to report that Thames Valley businesses appear to be doing exactly that.”
Turnover is increasing for 56 per cent of the Thames Valley businesses which took part in the survey, and investment in recruitment, training and development continued at a steady level.
