The Open University and British Chambers of Commerce have today released their Business Barometer 2022.
It’s based on a survey of more than 1,300 organisations across the UK, with a focus on Wales.
The figures have revealed that 69% of businesses in Wales say that their organisation has a skills shortage – up from 60% last year. 77% of respondents say that these skills shortages have meant reduced output, profitability or growth for their business.
Despite the Labour Government’s push for remote working, only 15% say this move towards remote working has helped them to attract new staff.
Commenting, Welsh Conservative Shadow Minister for Economy, Paul Davies MS, said:
“It’s clear that skills shortages in Wales have got worse – not better.
“This is a result of Labour’s failure on the economy and their anti-business policies which are holding Wales back.
“Urgent investment is now needed in the skills sector to stem the increase in skills shortages and to ensure that businesses have the resources they need to recover and grow post-pandemic.”