Suche
Mein Konto
Rhein-Erft: Companies see slight improvement, but darkness remains!
Companies in the Rhein-Erft district show a slightly improved business situation; Investment plans and risks remain in focus.
Rhein-Erft: Companies see slight improvement, but darkness remains!
In the current spring survey by the Cologne Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IHK), companies in the Rhein-Erft district are slightly more optimistic than before in their assessment of the business situation. The economic climate index rose by 5.2 points to 92.9, but remains below the long-term average of 105.8 points. However, this increase does not come close to offsetting the overall negative economic situation in the region, which has now been recorded at minus six points for the third time in a row. 29 percent of the companies surveyed stated that they were in a bad situation, while only 21 percent reported a good business situation. This reports ksta.de.
Of the 109 companies representing industry, trade and services in the region, 17 percent rate their situation as good, which represents an increase of two percent compared to the previous survey. In return, 31 percent of companies report that they are experiencing a poor business situation. Compared to previous months, companies' expectations for the coming year have improved by nine points, but only 15 percent of those surveyed expect a positive development, while 28 percent expect a negative trend.
Investment and employment prospects
In terms of investments, 24 percent of companies plan to deploy more capital, while 39 percent expect lower investments, a decrease of three percent. The outlook for employment has improved by a total of twelve points, but remains negative. The proportion of companies aiming for higher employment levels has increased from eleven to 20 percent, while 30 percent expect fewer staff.
Risks to economic development
Although the mood among companies in the Rhein-Erft district has improved slightly, general expectations remain subdued. IHK Vice President Tina Gerfer said that the downward trend in the economy had stopped, but that the all-clear could not be given. This cautious attitude underlines companies' demand for quick political incentives to improve economic conditions.