Margins under pressure for Aura companies, according to the CCI – Le Journal des Entreprises

It is a less optimistic note on the economic situation than the previous ones just published by the CCI Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes. This study shows that, while 56% of VSEs and SMEs in the region recorded an increase in their turnover in 2022, these increases are to be qualified due to inflation. And for a large proportion of companies (39%), the year 2022 is synonymous with a drop in their margin. A clear deterioration is recorded for the business outlook for the first half of 2023. The majority of VSEs and SMEs expect a decline in their turnover. 28% of them say they are weakened or threatened by the rise in energy prices. Cash flow difficulties are more frequent, fueled in particular by insufficient margins. Lack of confidence in the general economic situation is at an all-time high, with concerns about the level of business failures. While recruitment should be less dynamic, employment remains well oriented. As for investment, it also showed good resistance.