Nearly three-quarters of Iowa Association of Business and Industry members said in a December poll that they expect higher sales next year.

They were in a good mood about other indicators, too. 

“If the outlook for Q1 is any indication, 2019 will be a banner year for Iowa businesses,” said Mike Ralston, ABI president. “Q1 often sets the tone for the entire year, so we’re off to a great start.”

Of course, the members still complained of a persistent drag on the Iowa economy — trouble attracting and keeping skilled workers. 

“Attracting and retaining a skilled workforce continues to be the biggest challenge for Iowa businesses,” said Ralston. “It’s been that way for many years, and we don’t see that changing anytime soon.”

Results of the latest survey included: 

• 72 percent of respondents expect sales to rise in ‘19, while 21 percent expect no change.
• 55 percent plan to add employees.
• 97 percent of survey respondents plan to make capital expenditures in the first quarter of ‘19. That’s up from 65 percent in the fourth quarter of this year.
• A shortage of skilled labor and rising material costs and tariffs on raw materials are considered top issues for the first quarter.