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Figures out today have shown that CPI inflation has risen from 3.7% to 4%, and RPI inflation has risen to 5.1% from 4.7%.


The rising cost of living versus stagnant wage increases means that people have got less cash to spend, especially so on new windows, doors, conservatories or orangeries.


This squeeze on spare cash is really hitting people’s spending confidence. Wherever you go and whoever you speak to in business, they will all tell you one thing, people are hesitant. They are scared of spending money. All this leads to the very serious problem of reduced cash flow. No cash flow equals no bills being paid which equals winding up orders.


Consumer confidence is the most valuable asset at the moment. We need inflation to come down so the public will feel better about spending their cash.


Looking forward, I see very uncertain and tumultuous times for everybody.