Wholesaling: Business Climate Cools Down Markedly

The business climate indicator for wholesaling fell in December. Survey participants were far more satisfied with their current business situation. Expectations for the months ahead also clouded over, but remained above the annual average. Demand regained impetus, but wholesalers were forced to reduce their prices. Plans for the months ahead still include a slight expansion of order volumes and an increase in staff numbers, although to a lesser extent than recently.