HomeCompetitive City Newsletter - February 2010
Winter economic indicators report
The winter edition of our economic indicators report will be released this month. The document analyses local data and contains opinions from industry experts to provide commentary on the local and regional economy.According to the report, the Christmas period and the continuation of favourable exchange rates appears to have boosted demand within the city.
Retail has been the biggest winner, with sales reportedly increasing in some stores by as much as 50 percent. The hotel and restaurant sector has also enjoyed a bumper Christmas period.
There are also positive signs at a company level though, with the Purchasing Managers Index suggesting a positive move in both output and employment. InterTradeIreland’s Business Monitor Report showed improvements in the number of companies enjoying a positive turnover, and generally positive business announcements in the local press.
However, local companies are still finding conditions tough, with SMEs in particular reportedly in survival mode. The restrictions around bank lending continue to be a key factor limiting growth.
For further information on our economic indicators, please contact:
Barry Rooney
Telephone: 028 9050 0504
Email: rooneyb@belfastcity.gov.uk
