Deloitte's survey of 35 companies in the region reveals that 74% plan to gradually increase their workforce. The consumer and industrial sectors lead the optimism.
74% of Andalusian companies expect to expand their workforce in the coming months, according to a survey conducted by Deloitte among financial directors (CFOs) of 35 companies based in the community. The data, extracted from the latest pulse of the top financial executives, reflects a trend of moderate but sustained growth in the regional business fabric.
Moderate Optimism Among Andalusian CFOs
Nearly four in ten companies are more optimistic than they were three months ago, while just over a third maintain their expectations unchanged. Family-owned businesses, which make up the largest group in the sample, show the greatest inclination towards relative optimism. By sector, consumer goods and industry stand out for concentrating the highest number of optimistic responses.
The analysed sample includes companies from sectors such as consumer goods, construction, energy, industrial, retail, public sector, and technology. Within the sample, there are family-owned companies, those owned by private equity funds, state-owned, backed by venture capital, and even listed companies.
Prudence in Investments and Pressure on Margins
Although forecasts point to increases in both revenue and operating margins, the latter continue to be under pressure. Investment momentum remains, but under cautious criteria. CFOs indicate that factors such as geopolitical tensions, volatility in energy and raw material prices, the slowdown of the European economy, and rising labour costs continue to condition decision-making.
Inflation expectations are predominantly in the range of 2.5 to 4%, both in Spain and the eurozone. This forecast is consistent with a scenario of moderate inflation, although above the targets of the European Central Bank. The majority of CFOs rate the level of uncertainty as high or very high, confirming the persistence of a complex and changing environment.
Sustainable Growth Strategy and Digitalisation
From a strategic perspective, companies' priorities show a clear orientation towards sustainable growth. Among the main levers are strengthening the customer base, driving organic growth, and improving productivity. Digitalisation and cost optimisation are consolidating as key elements to enhance competitiveness.
The focus on attracting and developing talent, as well as improving cash flow, is gaining increasing prominence in the financial function. José Pérez Paniagua, partner of Audit & Assurance at Deloitte, states:
“Andalusian companies are demonstrating their ability to adapt to a demanding economic environment without giving up their growth objectives. The financial function is taking on an increasingly strategic role in decision-making, contributing to strengthening the resilience and competitiveness of organisations. Looking to the future, the focus on talent, efficiency, and digitalisation will be key to driving sustainable growth and generating new business opportunities.”
For the Andalusian reader, this survey represents a positive indicator: companies in the region, including those in the province of Seville, expect to create jobs and increase their activity. However, investment prudence warns that growth will be gradual. The coming months will be crucial to see if these forecasts translate into new hires and concrete projects in the community.
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