Dorset: DCCI surveys local economy

The quarterly survey by the Dorset Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI), which incorporates questions about the local picture into the British Chambers of Commerce’s (BCC) national quarterly economic survey, showed that 38% of respondents described the economic climate as strong/positive or good, while half said that it was okay. More respondents expected turnover and profitability to improve rather than decline; and more employers reported employment growth rather than shrinkage.

On a slightly less-positive note, domestic sales saw a drop compared to the first quarter with more respondents reporting sales worsening than improving although almost half remained static. Some 55% of employers attempted to recruit which was down slightly on 60% in the first quarter.

The top local issues were seen as competition, skills gaps and infrastructure; and some 24% of respondents indicated that the cost or availability of local housing was a barrier to growth.

Ian Girling, chief executive of the DCCI, said: “Dorset businesses have remained positive in the face of Brexit-generated uncertainty. A focus on future growth and opportunities has continued in the wake of a softening economic performance post-vote, revised economic forecasts and the recent interest rate cut.”