Summary

The key findings of the FMB State of Trade Survey for the second quarter of 1998 were as follows:

• The percentage of those reporting declining workload levels has risen against both the second quarter of 1997 and the previous quarter's findings.

• The rate at which workload overall in the industry is declining has increased.

• Private sector workload has increased this quarter.

• The rate of decline in the public sector has increased for the third consecutive quarter.

• Firms undertaking new housing work have again reported an increase in the rate of decline.

• An increase in the rate of decline in other new work being carried out has been recorded.

• Output balance in the repair and maintenance sector remains positive, but growth continues to slow.

• The overall level of enquiries remains static compared to the last quarter but has fallen compared to the same period of 1997.

• Those working at full capacity remains static at 53%.

• The percentage of firms reporting shortage of skilled labour has marginally increased this quarter and is above the level reported in the corresponding quarter of 1997.

• Overall the percentage level of member firms reporting redundancies has fallen.

• The percentage of firms reporting a delay in the supply of materials has decreased this quarter.

• Members are anticipating a swing from the falling workloads experienced this quarter to increased levels over the next three month period.

• On aggregate, member firms are anticipating the size of their workforce to increase during the next quarter.

First Posted: 22 July 1998. Last Updated: 22 July 1998.