Business service providers remain optimistic

In the third quarter, providers of business services signal an increase in orders received and turnover in the second quarter. Nearly one third think the number of orders received is above the level typical for this time of year. One in ten think the number of orders received is unsatisfactory for this time of year.

The majority of business service providers expect to receive more orders and increase the number of sales in the third quarter of 2006. Nevertheless, the net percentage of optimists fell slightly compared to the previous quarter.

Business service providers are also positive about employment in their branch. About 30 percent of entrepreneurs in this sector expect to employ more people in the third quarter of 2006. Only 5 percent expect to have to reduce staff.

Since the first quarter of 2003, providers of business services are invited to state their opinions on the economic climate in general. In the third quarter of 2006, this indicator reached an all-time high.

The economic survey of business services attempts to gauge the mood of service providers in three branches: lease companies, computer service agencies and other business services (including temp agencies, advertising agencies, cleaning services, consulting engineers, chartered accountants and administrative offices).

Opinion on orders received in business services