NAPM-Chicago index shows huge growth for March

The National Association of Purchasing Management-Chicago’s Chicago Business Barometer, a report indicating the health of the area’s economy, rocketed ahead in March, providing some evidence of a strengthening economy. The headline index jumped 13.8 points, moving from 47.9 for February to 61.7 for March.

The report, issued on March 30, included the following information:

• Production advanced while the recovery in New Orders surpassed Production;
• Prices Paid decreased, indicating a slowing rate of inflation;
• Employment declined for the fourth month out of the last five;
• Buying Policy: Capital Equipment lead-times shortened.

To view the full report, visit the NAPM-Chicago Web site at www.napm-chicago.net.