Construction (west):
Sinking construction output

The business conditions in western German construction improved slightly, with a better situation in building construction offset by greater discontent in civil engineering. On average, building output decreased again. This was reflected in a lower equipment utilisation degree (59%), which, however, surpassed the previous-year value a little. However, the range of order backlogs at 2.3 months was just under the previous-year level. Accordingly, 63% of the enterprises appraised their order reserves as too small. Pessimism in the business expectations decreased further, and production will decrease according to the survey responses.