IBC survey: Iowa economy best in 10 years
BUSINESS RECORD STAFF Oct 1, 2018 | 3:05 pm
1 min read time
127 wordsAll Latest News, Economic DevelopmentThe Iowa Business Council’s quarterly survey of its members found the highest overall index in a decade.
The capital spending index also was the highest in 10 years.
The results show optimism about the Iowa economy, IBC reported.
Highlights include:
- Three-fourths of IBC members said they expect higher sales over the next six months.
- Sixty percent expect increased capital spending, with an index of 70. Anything over 50 indicates confidence in growth.
- Regarding the labor force, three-fourths of respondents cited attracting, developing and keeping talented workers as one of the biggest challenges.
- Supplies are another challenge. More than half the respondents said the cost of product and service inputs — which include energy, raw material and sourcing — is an issue.
The Economic Outlook Survey began in 2004.