The traditional press conference of the Nice Chamber of Commerce and Industry after the summer holidays was held in an atmosphere of relative confidence. According to statistical figures, after a rather gloomy 2014, the economy of the Alpes-Maritimes is beginning to solidify in the first half of this year.
The economic regions of Antibes-Sophia Antipolis (technology and information hub) and Grasse (life sciences) are the main drivers of this industrial activity uptick.
This does not prevent Bernard Kleynhoff from exercising his usual caution: “The growth rate of the second quarter is more dynamic than that of the first quarter of 2015. This does not yet allow us to speak of a recovery, as the financial situation of businesses is still very fragile.”
In fact, the companies’ turnover is slightly increasing compared to last year (+0.5%). Exports are also growing (+1%) and confirm an already positive first quarter.
The hotel and restaurant sector, which remains one of the economic pillars of the department, anticipated a good level of activity and sees its expectations confirmed thanks to a favorable season in terms of climate.
However, the issue of unemployment has worsened (-0.5%) with a rate of 10.4% of job seekers (amounting to 68,594 individuals).
For the future, two indicators are encouraging: the order book is holding firm and business leaders’ morale is on the rise.
And when spirits are high… the future can only be bright!
