Small business confidence still rising

Latest survey results from the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) reveal record levels of business confidence among UK small firms. The Small Business Index – the FSB's measure of confidence – reached +41 points in the third quarter. It is the first time the sentiment has reached this level with every sector recording a positive outlook for the upcoming three months. Three fifths of the small businesses surveyed (61%) are expecting to grow in the next 12 months. One in 10 (11%) expects to grow rapidly. These results make it the seventh consecutive quarter that small businesses have been positive about their outlook. Regionally, the North East is showing the greatest gains compared to a year ago, recording a confidence score of +44, compared to -7 in Q3 2013. The South East remains the most confident region overall, registering a score of +52. Small firms also report good news on turnover, profits and job creation. One third (33%) of businesses surveyed expect their turnover to grow in the next quarter and almost a fifth (17%) expect profits to rise. The most confident sector remains financial services (+62), while most improvement was witnessed in health and social work, and in the hospitality industry. Job creation is robust too, with small firms' hiring intentions at an all-time high. A net balance (+5%) of small businesses increased headcounts this quarter, a trend that looks set to continue in the next quarter. John Allan, national chairman, FSB, said:  "We're seeing record breaking confidence from our members which suggests small firms will continue to spearhead the UK's recovery. We want policy makers to lock in this optimism and continue to back the self-employed and small businesses. As we head in to party conference season, we'll be looking to all the political parties to spell out what they will do to encourage job creation, investment and reward entrepreneurs in the next Parliament."