The Cole Taylor Business Owners Confidence Index survey is conducted semi-annually to gather feedback from Chicago area business leaders regarding their attitudes and perceptions of the economy, both nationally and within the local market.  These leaders represent a variety of industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, transportation, wholesale, and technology. We hope you'll find the results of our Fall 2012 survey engaging and insightful as you plan for your future and the future of your business.

Chicago area businesses plan expansion, experience modest sales growth in the face of deepening concerns over the economy

• 60% of Chicago area business leaders said they plan to expand in the next six months.  45% plan to expand in Illinois, 45% plan to expand out-of-state, and 10% plan to expand internationally.
• 52% reported increased sales during the previous quarter.  Only 15% reported lower sales.

• There is growing pessimism about the economy: 88% of respondents rated the U.S. economy as being in fair or poor condition, up from 84% from the Spring, 2012 survey.  When looking ahead, a greater number of respondents expect conditions will be worse.

• The outlook for hiring weakened, with only a third of respondents planning to add to staff in the next three months, down from 42% in the Spring.

Click here to view the full report - including results related to the global economy and recommended solutions for fixing the Illinois State Budget deficit.

Register now to receive the results of the Spring 2013 Cole Taylor Business Owners Confidence Index survey.