EFC Business Confidence Survey Q2 2026

May 8, 2026

EFC Business Confidence Poll in Q2 2026 remains positive but is moderating compared to the previous quarter. With strong participation – 104 respondents, results show most of the industry expects growth. 66% predict increase in FY2026 sales while 25% estimate a decline, yielding a +40% balance of opinion, down from +62% in Q1—indicating continued but at slower pace.

Demand remains strongest in the commercial, industrial, and institutional sectors, where most respondents report stable to growing activity. In contrast, residential demand shows more weakness, with a higher proportion of respondents indicating declining conditions. Supply chain conditions continue to improve overall, with more businesses reporting that issues are resolved or easing. However, the increase in supply chain challenges—from 19% last quarter to 27% indicates they are having impact on customers and service.

Q2 2026 expectations remain optimistic, with 52% respondents anticipating moderate growth (primarily in the 1–10% range), though fewer expect high-growth outcomes compared to earlier surveys. Insights from the comments suggest that while activity remains solid, respondents are increasingly focused on regional market conditions, cross-border influences and uncertainty and concern in the residential sector.

Overall, the data points to a stable but cooling market environment, where growth continues but uncertainty—driven by demand variability, regional and sector market condition—remains a key concern across the industry.

Participating members receive a detailed report by membership, product categories, and regions.