Small business confidence is up as firms plan to grow investment
CONFIDENCE among small businesses grew markedly in the second quarter of 2015, according to research from the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB).
The latest FSB small business index (SBI) reveals that firms are in a robust mood, with growth and investment intentions reaching new highs since the index began in 2010.
The research shows that companies are very positive on their prospects for the coming months, with almost two thirds (65.3 per cent) aspiring to grow moderately or rapidly in the next three months. This is the highest figure ever seen in the SBI.
The index also shows the highest ever number of firms planning to invest in their business. Nearly one third of businesses (32 per cent) plan to increase capital investment over the next 12 months.
John Allan, FSB national chairman, said the results of the SBI for the second quarter “show the major role that small businesses play in the growth of the UK’s economy”.
He added: “It is critical the new government continues to develop the right environment to support businesses planning to grow, invest and take on new staff in the next 12 months.”