BUSINESSES in the North-East have indicated their workforce is growing at the fastest rate in 20 years.

In its most recent Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) of members, the North East Chamber of Commerce (NECC) has found that the workforce score is higher now than at any point since this survey started in 1995.

After surveying members from across the North-East, the region’s largest business membership organisation found that as well as positive results in recruitment, the majority of QES results are positive compared with three-months-ago.

Ross Smith, director of policy, NECC said: “This quarter has provided some very positive results.

“The workforce score is especially good news because these figures show high levels of members recruiting for permanent, full-time positions.

“This score reflects the tremendous success seen in growing employment in the North-East at a time when the much of the public sector continues to face cuts.

“Even better news is that the score for future workforce has also increased, suggesting this very positive trend still has some way to go.”

Paul Grigg, operations manager of Manpower in Newcastle has noticed the positive shift recently.

He said: “We’ve seen a dramatic increase in queries for temporary and permanent staff in quarter two, 74 per cent ahead of quarter one.

“The construction industry leads the way, although skilled tradespeople are in very short supply especially joiners, painters and plant drivers.”

Teesside workwear and clothing provider M.I. Supplies also confirmed positive results, with managing director, Alex Ingham saying: “We have significantly increased our staff count by 50 per cent in the past 18 months and are looking at recruiting a further ten staff in the coming three year period.”

The QES showed very positive overall results, although progress appeared to be slower than the same period last year, with the score for export sales is at its lowest level since 2012.

This can be put down to low oil prices, exchange rates and turbulence in foreign markets including the Eurozone, Russia, and North Africa.

Mr Smith said: “Given the North East’s long-term strength as an exporting region it is to be hoped that the region can rebound strongly from this position. Solid expectations of future profits reflect this and demonstrate a confident outlook.”