CE Barometer results for August 2021

The August 2021 barometer survey was completed during the first three weeks of September.

The balance figure (the difference between those reporting on improvement or deterioration in conditions between February and March 2021) now stands at 21.3%, up from just 3.3% in the July Barometer.

Looking at levels of business for August, compared with the previous month, the numbers look significantly healthier, with 41.3% of respondents seeing improvement, compared with 27.8% in July.

The number seeing a reduction in their business has fallen to 20%, down from 24.4% last month, leading to the strong balance figure.

This much needed upward trajectory ‘stops the rot’, following three consecutive months of a reducing balance figure, as the Covid recovery showed distinct signs of wobbling, while supply chain issues took the edge off high demand.

It should be noted, however, that, while the respondents seeing better business now than last year has also grown (up from 66.7% to 68.8%), so has the number reporting a reduction in business (up from 11.1% to 16.3%).

Looking 12 months ahead, though, the picture appears rosier, with 60% forecasting improved levels of business (that’s an increase of almost 18% on the previous month’s response).

Furthermore, those predicting lower levels of business has fallen from 16.7% last month, to just 11.3% in the latest barometer.