Confidence lower than ever in Alberta: CFIB
Posted Mar 31, 2016 12:47 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
It’s another record low for small business confidence in Alberta.
The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) has released its Business Barometer report for the month of March, which shows the numbers have slipped for the fourth consecutive month.
Amber Ruddy, Alberta director with CFIB, said there is a lot of pessimism in the province right now, and the report’s confidence index is at its lowest ever, with a mark of 26.5 out of 100 points.
She added that it’s been a tough month for the entire country.
“Nine out of the 10 (provinces) have seen a decline this month, but we are more than 20 points lower than any other province,” Ruddy said. “Even in terms of the industries. Of course, natural resources, transportation and agriculture are at the bottom of the list, but a lot of the industries have been moving down as well.”
An index above 50 points means owners expect their businesses to grow in the next 12 months.
Many entrepreneurs say staffing will continue to be an issue, and employees may be let go throughout the year.
