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29/04/2003
Healthy outlook for building firms in year ahead
Figures announced in the Federation of Master Builders’ (FMB) State of Trade survey for the first quarter of 2003 indicate that the recent conflict in Iraq has had little or no effect on business for the UK’s small and medium sized building firms.
The survey shows that workloads are increasing, with strong expectations of continued improvements in both workload and employment in the second quarter and beyond. Despite fears about a possible dip in consumer confidence as a result of the Iraqi conflict, 41% of the builders surveyed reported an increase in workload in the first three months of 2003, 10% ahead of predictions for the quarter in the previous survey.
Looking forward, 78% of builders expect future workloads to grow or remain constant in the second quarter of 2003, with the greatest increases expected in domestic new build and domestic repair, maintenance and improvement (RMI).
Commenting on the figures, FMB director general Ian Davis said: “It appears that consumer confidence remains healthy, despite the situation in Iraq and the much-publicised fears of a slowdown in the property market.
"Builders tend to be cautious in predicting their future workload, so the fact that they are forecasting growth over the next six months is a good indicator of a buoyant market.”
(CL)
The survey shows that workloads are increasing, with strong expectations of continued improvements in both workload and employment in the second quarter and beyond. Despite fears about a possible dip in consumer confidence as a result of the Iraqi conflict, 41% of the builders surveyed reported an increase in workload in the first three months of 2003, 10% ahead of predictions for the quarter in the previous survey.
Looking forward, 78% of builders expect future workloads to grow or remain constant in the second quarter of 2003, with the greatest increases expected in domestic new build and domestic repair, maintenance and improvement (RMI).
Commenting on the figures, FMB director general Ian Davis said: “It appears that consumer confidence remains healthy, despite the situation in Iraq and the much-publicised fears of a slowdown in the property market.
"Builders tend to be cautious in predicting their future workload, so the fact that they are forecasting growth over the next six months is a good indicator of a buoyant market.”
(CL)
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Following a disastrous first quarter of the year when orders dropped by 73 per cent, workloads for builders in Northern Ireland have shown a significant recovery reports the Federation of Master Builders in its State of Trade Survey for the Second Quarter 2001. However, the expectation is that growth will be much smaller during the third quarter.
Red tape leave customers waiting for builders
Following a disastrous first quarter of the year when orders dropped by 73 per cent, workloads for builders in Northern Ireland have shown a significant recovery reports the Federation of Master Builders in its State of Trade Survey for the Second Quarter 2001. However, the expectation is that growth will be much smaller during the third quarter.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
