CAB Q4, 2019 Survey: Continued confidence despite concerns over rising costs

Justin Ratcliffe, (CAB Chief Executive)

CAB Chief Executive, Justin Ratcliffe considers the latest CAB State of Market Survey Q4, 2019.

The very latest CAB State of Market Survey for Q4, 2019 showed large rises in confidence for expected sales volumes over the next quarter/year. In the next quarter 80% net balance of members forecasted growth (43% in Q3) while 79% net balance of members forecasted growth in the year ahead (57% in Q3).

Once again members were as positive or more positive across all the investment metrics for the year ahead compared to the previous 12 months although concerns remain over ever rising cost factors especially wages and salaries.

Interestingly, research conducted by NatWest, in partnership with Warwick Business School recently highlighted that UK construction companies are focused on keeping down costs and overheads, with 45% citing that as the key challenge they face – closely followed by attracting skilled employees at 44%.

Looking at the sales in Q4 compared to a year ago, 40% of CAB members reported a rise above 5%,15%, a rise of up to 5% and 35% no change. Only a 10% of members reported any reduction. Read More

Tony Higgin
Publisher

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