The outlook of Wellington businesses is getting bleaker, but apparently this is in line with what's happening around the country.

The Wellington Employers Chamber of Commerce data shows just 28% of businesses think the local economy will improve in the next 12 months.

That's down half a percent on last October.

Confidence in the national economy is also down, with 40% expecting things to improve.

WECC Chief Executive John Milford believes more than 45% of businesses remain confident in their own outlook however.

He said people tend to have a more positive view on things within their control.