Findings of South East Business Confidence Survey

07 Jul 10

An improvement in sentiment among businesses in the South East offers a strong signal that the worst of the recession may be over.

However, the majority don't expect to see any significant improvement in trading during the remainder of 2010 while many believe they will undertake further cost cuts including workforce reductions this year according to the findings of the latest South East Business Confidence Study. This is the fifth in a series of twice-yearly surveys conducted in the South-East of Ireland by Kilkenny-based market research firm, Market Dynamics. 326 organisations in the region participated.

The findings demonstrate that about three-quarters of businesses have made price reductions because of the downturn. More importantly, 60% of businesses expect to maintain these prices after the economic recovery. In addition, and a positive indication for many suppliers in these industries, is the fact that many organizations plan to make significant investments in marketing, training and IT.

Commenting on the results, John Gilsenan, Managing Director of Market Dynamics, stated: “while the economic environment in the South-East has not improved to any significant extent in the past six months, businesses have adjusted to this new reality. They have cuts costs and are ready to do so again this year as the need arises. Many have cut prices and most expect that these prices won't rise again when the recovery comes. This is a positive message that businesses are coping well and consumers can benefit. It is good news for the competitiveness of the region and the country. Indications of significant investment in the coming months by many businesses is a positive indication of their increasing confidence in the future."

To read the Executive Summary click here South East Business Confidence Survey June 2010 Executive Summary

To read the press release click here South East Business Confidence Survey June 2010 Press Release


This is the fifth in a series of twice-yearly surveys conducted in the South-East of Ireland by Kilkenny-based market research firm, Market Dynamics. 326 organisations in the region participated.



Tel:        056 775 8844
Mob:     086 171 3959 
Email:   fiona@marketdynamics.ie
Web:    www.marketdynamics.ie 

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