Kapiti, Friday 13 July
Local businesses are feeling more confident about their prospects, compared to the wider Wellington region, according to statistics released from the latest Kāpiti Chamber of Commerce Business Confidence Survey.
Businesses were surveyed over a two-week period in June 2018. While confidence in the national economy dropped, local businesses are incredibly optimistic about their prospects, with 63 per cent of Kapiti businesses believing their business situation will improve, compared to a Wellington regional average of 44 per cent.
Heather Hutchings, Chair of the Kāpiti Chamber of Commerce, says this is an encouraging result and reflects investment occurring in the community.
“Kāpiti has unprecedented opportunities for growth, and these survey results echo the positive attitude we’re seeing in the business community, particularly now Air Chathams has confirmed it will begin flying from Paraparaumu next month.
“Infrastructure like our daily connection to Auckland and Transmission Gully, are game-changers for Kapiti. The new road will open up our region like never before when it comes online in 2020, and as a Chamber, we’re working with our members to ensure they’re ready to maximise the opportunities it will bring, along with the next phase of the Expressway.”
The Kāpiti Coast economy outperformed the Wellington region average in 2017, growing by 2.7 per cent compared to 2.2 per cent for the wider region, which is being recognised by local businesses.
“69 per cent expect their earnings to grow over the next 12 months, and 41 per cent are looking to hire more staff over the next three months. All of these are positive indicators of future growth.
“While business confidence in the national economy has dropped, we’re pleased our businesses remain positive about the region’s prospects. It’s a fantastic time to be in business in Kāpiti”.
For more information, please contact:
Heather Hutchings, Kāpiti Chamber Chair | 021 0696143 | [email protected]
Julene Hope, Chair, Chamber Advocacy Committee | 021 500709
Jacinda Thorn, Public Relations | 027 3970616 | [email protected]