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18
Mar 2021
Survey reveals strong business confidence in Harrogate district
A survey of businesses in the Harrogate district has found high levels of confidence, despite months of restrictions.
Harrogate law firm Berwins conducted the survey in the last week of February to gauge confidence as many firms prepare to re-open.
Almost two-thirds (63 per cent) of the approximately 50 respondents were confident about their prospects.
The figure rose to over 70 per cent when asked about the next six or 12 months, suggesting businesses are looking to the future with a renewed sense of optimism.
However, 30 per cent thought the next three months would pose challenges, highlighting short-term concerns.
Part of this growing assurance has been put down the government’s proposed road map.
While the overall handling of the pandemic by central government generated mixed responses, the phased approach to re-opening was generally well received.
Confidence in the wider business community was, however less assured. While firms are broadly positive about their own position, just 30 per cent felt the same way about the local commercial community over the next six months.
Read more:
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Although that figure improved in the medium term – 50% of respondents were confident about the community over the next 12 months – the gap between business leaders' perceptions of their own business and the wider community remained.
Paul Berwin, senior partner at Berwins, said:
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