Over a fifth of businesses in Greater Manchester are anticipating an increase in their staff numbers this year, according to a survey released today by New Economy.
The Greater Manchester Business Survey 2012 has been produced as a collaborative effort on behalf of the conurbation’s business base. Partners include the Business Growth Hub, Bolton Council, Manchester City Council, Stockport Council, MIDAS, and Manchester Airport.
The survey collates the responses of more than 2,400 businesses in Greater Manchester to provide a snapshot of current trends in the conurbation’s business community.
It finds that a further 69% of businesses do not anticipate a change in staff numbers this year, whilst only one-in-twenty (6%) are expecting staff numbers to decrease.
Almost one third of businesses intend to recruit an apprentice in the future. When compared to just over twelve months ago, this demonstrates a marked improvement – in Manchester in 2011 only 14% of businesses had intentions to recruit an apprentice compared to 50% at present.
Reflecting on recent activity, a third (35%) of the businesses surveyed reported an increase in turnover in 2012, despite the challenging economic conditions.
Other findings from the survey convey areas that could be improved to ensure the region’s business objectives remain aligned to the Greater Manchester Strategy.
In particular, nearly three-quarters (72%) of the businesses interviewed said they do not plan to engage in international activity.
Access to finance also remains a key issue with 57% relying on internal capital, 43% turning to the banks and 20% having relied upon friends and family.
The survey concludes that whilst many of the region’s businesses are performing well and have remained stable over the past year, there are a number of enduring weaknesses that remain in the Greater Manchester economy.
Councillor Iain Roberts, executive member for economic development and regeneration at Stockport Council, said: “This new business survey is a useful tool for us to identify opportunities and engage with local businesses.
“The results reconfirm Stockport’s strengths as a premier business location. Local businesses highlighted access to customers and suppliers, transport links and the image of the area as key benefits of locating in the borough.
“The survey revealed that 8 in 10 Stockport businesses have engaged in innovation over the last three years, 17% increased staffing levels over the last 12 months and 25% expect to increase employment in the next 12 months.”
Source: New Economy
Click here to download the Greater Manchester Business Survey 2012 in full
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