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Gloucestershire Business News

UK economy ‘stuck on a low-growth treadmill’

Monthly real gross domestic product (GDP) is estimated to have grown by 0.1% in February 2024, according to data published today (April 12).

This follows growth of 0.3% in January 2024, according to the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), with overall growth of 0.2% for the three months to February.

David Bharier head of research at the British Chambers of Commerce, said: "Today's data confirms once again that the UK economy is stuck on a low-growth treadmill. With GDP growth of 0.2% in the three months to February, and 0.1% on a monthly basis - there's little sign of the landscape changing soon. However, it may indicate that the technical recession ended at the end of last year.

"Boosting business investment is fundamental to securing stronger economic growth. While business confidence remains buoyant, our latest Quarterly Economic Survey, published yesterday, showed continued tough business conditions with most SMEs not increasing their investment.

"Firms are still facing significant cost pressures from historically high inflation and interest rates, skills shortages, and even more trade barriers with EU. Businesses desperately need a long-term economic plan that drives investment and innovation."

Punchline-Gloucester.com said: "Everybody who runs a business nowadays is fully aware that it's tough going. It doesn't matter whether you're big or small, making lots of money or not, we're all working longer and harder for less.

"It's been a long grind since Covid, but thankfully we live and work in one of the most beautiful counties in the country, with a diverse range of companies and people that, in light of the troubles around the world, we can all be thankful for living in peace."

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