Hiring intentions across Germany dipped in June, with companies looking to hire fewer workers compared with May 2015 according to the June Employment Barometer from the Institute of Economic Research (Ifo).

The index edged down to 107.8 points in June from 108.2 points last month. Compared with last year, however, the index registered an increase from 106.1 points in June 2014. 

Despite a deterioration in the business climate, Germany’s manufacturing industry reported increased hiring intentions for the sixth consecutive month.

Companies in the retail sector, which advised last month that it intended to hire additional staff, reported a weak hiring sentiment. The hiring of contractors in the construction sector remained patchy.

Once again, the services sector proved the most willing to increase headcount during June.