Small firms expecting to hire despite slight rise in unemployment, say FSB

Small firms expecting to hire despite slight rise in unemployment, say FSB

Reacting to news that unemployment has risen by 15,000 to 1.85 million people between March and May 2015, John Allan, FSB National Chairman, said:

“Although unemployment is very marginally up, we believe the previously positive trend in employment growth will return in the second half of the year. Our latest small business index recorded the strongest small business hiring intentions since the index started in 2010. With a net balance of 14 per cent of our members planning to take on more employees in the next three months, we expect the march toward full employment to resume over the summer and into the autumn.”

Regarding the wage increase of 3.2 per cent, John Allan continued:

“Today’s figures tell a positive story on wages. The increase of 3.2 per cent demonstrates that, as economic conditions improve, businesses are better able to raise wages and share the rewards of economic growth.

“What is not yet clear is how the budget announcement of a new ‘national living wage’ will impact future wage and hiring decisions. Businesses in sectors such as retail and hospitality may struggle to absorb the additional costs without improvements in productivity – and will therefore seek alternative ways to pay for higher wages in the short term. The big unknown is what a significantly higher minimum wage will mean for employment levels and working hours in these sectors.

“It’s important the Low Pay Commission retains the freedom and flexibility under its revised remit to make future recommendations that reflect wider economic and business conditions, and if necessary deviate from the Government’s living wage target. A sustainable wage floor that is sensitive to swings in economic circumstances must be maintained.”

Media Contacts:

Emma Smailes

Emma.Smales@fsb.org.uk

07917 628918


About Federation of Small Businesses

The Federation of Small Businesses is the UK's largest campaigning pressure group promoting and protecting the interests of the self-employed and owners of small firms. Formed in 1974, it now has around 200,000 members across 33 regions and 188 branches.