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Last Updated: Tuesday, 1 June, 2004, 17:42 GMT 18:42 UK
Small businesses 'are thriving'
Factory machine
Skilled staff are hard to find, the study warns
Small businesses in Scotland are thriving, according to new research.

But the survey by the Federation of Small Businesses found that business leaders also have concerns over crime and obstacles to growth.

More than 2,000 small firms in Scotland took part in the lobbying group's survey.

Half the companies said that their profits had gone up over the past year and a third of firms had taken on additional staff.

Broadband technology

However, most bosses said they had been the victims of crimes such as vandalism or burglary.

The number of businesses with a broadband internet connection is lower than the UK average.

And a third of companies questioned said they had found it hard to find skilled staff.

The federation argued that recruitment problems showed the need for greater provision of vocational and technical training in schools and colleges.


SEE ALSO:
CBI fears new planning law delays
13 May 04  |  Scotland
Summit 'should hear Scots voice'
06 Apr 04  |  Scotland
Business optimism reported
25 Mar 04  |  Scotland


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