Despite a downturn in global markets and fears of a worsening economy, finding and recruiting skilled staff is still the main challenge facing companies in B.C and Alberta, according to a new survey.
The PricewaterhouseCoopers Business Insights survey found that two-thirds of businesses in Alberta and more than 40% of businesses in B.C. find recruitment and labour shortages as the key issue facing them in the year ahead. The economy, which was the third most important influence on B.C. businesses last year is now the second most important issue affecting business.
Despite a sluggish economy, more than half of B.C. businesses are still striving for growth and expansion in their business. But noting the reality of the situation, sentiment about the future has declined as more than 80% of businesses in the provinces were gearing for growth an expansion less than three months ago. Roughly 40% of those surveyed said the environment is likely to get a little worse in the next year.