Confidence among small business owners has soured, according to the latest ‘Small Business Sentiment Survey’ report from the Small Firms Association (SFA), published today.
35% of SFA members feel that the business environment is improving, compared with 45% in May 2019.
Sven Spollen-Behrens, SFA Director, said: “2019 brought a number of significant challenges from a small business perspective. Increasing costs and regulatory burden, Brexit related uncertainty, global trade tensions and a tightening labour market. As we face into a new decade there is little doubt that these mounting challenges have led to a large fall in small business owner’s confidence.
“Two thirds of survey respondents indicated their intention to invest in their business and recruit over the coming year. Highlighting our healthy economy continues to drive ambition among our small business community.“
-
Small business sentiment down 10 points since May 2019
-
Survey respondents indicate their intention to recruit and invest in 2020
-
February 1st increase in the National Minimum Wage threat to competitiveness
The survey results, however, also focus on several areas of concern for small firms. Spollen-Behrens continued: “A number of risk factors for 2020 have been identified, such as Brexit, the ability to attract talent and slower economic growth all of which have the potential to reduce growth and confidence in our small business sector. Separately, the increase in the National Minimum Wage to €10.10, from February 1st, will further hinder small businesses ability to Brexit proof their businesses and maintain cost competitiveness.
“The best way to prepare the economy for the challenges ahead is for the Government to follow through on the publishing of a new national SME and Entrepreneurship Strategy, introduce a comprehensive tax policy that is conducive to small firms and decrease government-controlled costs.”
In conclusion, Spollen-Behrens stated “The fundamentals of the Irish economy are strong and economic growth and job creation are forecast to continue in 2020. However, Brexit poses one of the biggest challenges faced by small businesses in years and the SFA will remain focused on preparing members for the opportunities and risks to their businesses.”
Click here to read the full report
Article Published: 09/01/2020