BIS’ Small Business Research Survey 2014

Posted: 7^th April 2015

The research finds a third of small and medium sized employers expect to employ more people in 12 months’ time, compared with one in five in 2012.

Half of the 4,355 SME employers questioned say their turnover is likely to be higher in the coming 12 months – up from 37 per cent in 2012.

 Key findings from the research include:

• Almost three quarters of small and medium-sized employers plan to grow their business over the next two to three years, compared with 68% in 2012.
• Small and medium-sized employers are recruiting more staff, with 22% of the firms taking on more staff over the last 12 months, compared with 19% in 2012.
• Asked to look forward, 32% of small and medium-sized employers expected to be employing more people in 12 months’ time, just four per cent expect to have fewer employees (21 % in 2012).
• 40% of small and medium-sized employers reported their turnover is greater now than 12 months ago, compared with 29% in 2012. Only 18% report declining turnover, down from 31%.
• Over half (51%) hope to grow their turnover over the next year, up from 37% in 2012.
• Small and medium-sized employers are more profitable, with 78% reporting they have made a profit or surplus in the last 12 months compared with 72% in 2012

More information here small business survey