Construction underpins 2013 business performance

Total sales for New Zealand businesses increased 1.4 percent (to $531.5 billion) in the 2013 financial year, Statistics New Zealand said today. This followed a 4.2 percent increase in the 2012 financial year.

"Most of the industry groups showed growth in the 2013 financial year, with the sales increase in the construction industry being particularly strong," national accounts manager Gary Dunnet said.

For the construction industry, sales were up $2.8 billion (8.3 percent). Associated industries, retail trade and accommodation; and professional, scientific, technical and administration services, showed moderate increases. The agriculture, forestry and fishing industry showed the largest decrease, with sales dropping $0.9 billion (2.7 percent).

Total income was down 0.1 percent ($0.3 billion), to $611.0 billion in 2013. This followed a 6.0 percent increase in the 2012 financial year. The drop in income was due mainly to the financial and insurance services industry and followed an exceptional rise in this industry in 2012.

Surplus before income tax increased to $63.6 billion in 2013, up (7.9 percent) from $59.0 billion in the 2012 financial year. This was primarily due to a larger decrease in total expenditure than in total income.

The Annual Enterprise Survey (AES) is Statistics NZ’s most comprehensive source of financial statistics. It provides annual financial performance and position information about businesses operating in New Zealand.