63% of Irish sales directors say their business is being affected by the outbreak of foot and mouth. This is according to a new survey commissioned by online Customer Relationship Management software provider, salesforce.com.
'This survey shows that it is not just tourism and farming being hit by foot and mouth, but general business as well,' commented John Appleby from salesforce.com.
The study reveals that Irish businesses are being hit harder than their counterparts in the UK. 42% of British firms have been affected with the greatest impact in the north of England (56%).
The survey was conducted during March and April and covered manufacturing, services and retail/wholesale businesses. Only about 5% of the firms surveyed were in the agribusiness or tourism sector.
It found that of the firms affected in Ireland and the UK, 41% have experienced less sales, while 21% have been affected by the slowdown of deliveries/transportation and travel restrictions. 18% of those affected have reported reduced sales in rural areas.
