In the quarterly business survey sent to the Iowa Association of Business and Industry board members, businesses provided a balanced outlook on sales for the next quarter. About 39% of respondents anticipate sales to expand, with the same percentage expecting sales to remain stable. The remaining 21% are cautious, anticipating a reduction in sales.

Survey results showed a more optimistic tone for employment, with 46% of respondents expecting an increase in the number of employees within their organization over the next quarter. Only 17% expect a decrease in employees.

The survey also revealed that 64% of respondents have plans to make capital expenditures in the upcoming quarter, showing a commitment from businesses to innovate and expand their operations while contributing to economic growth.

“Iowa is doing things right,” ABI President Mike Ralston said in a prepared statement. “With recent news of the state government surplus, accelerated business tax reductions and regulatory changes, Iowa businesses are primed for continued growth. Iowa businesses and our state leaders have made sound decisions that continue to insulate us from the extremes.”

Each quarter, ABI sends a quarterly business survey to provide a comprehensive snapshot of the industry’s current state and future trajectory. The survey for the fourth quarter of 2023 was sent to ABI board members in mid-September.

ABI will also host its Iowa Manufacturing Conference and Legends in Manufacturing Awards on Wednesday, Oct. 4, to provide insight and advice on the top challenges and opportunities facing Iowa manufacturers today, from using new technology to finding new markets. The event will start at 7 a.m. at the FFA Enrichment Center in Ankeny.