Construction Industry Sees Positive Outlook Ahead

BUFFALO GROVE, Ill. - Owners of construction and contracting businesses expressed their improved outlook regarding the general economy during the next 12 months as the Small Business Research Board (SBRB) said its Small Business Confidence Index (SBCI) increased during the first quarter. The construction and contracting industry reported an SBCI of 44 during the first quarter, a nine point increase from the 35 recorded during the fourth quarter of 2007, according to the study co-sponsored by International Profit Associates.

The higher construction and contracting SBCI resulted from a positive outlook regarding the general economy in the next 12 months and 36% (an increase of 12 points) of the respondents plan to increase hiring during the same period. 46% of respondents said they were prepared to increase staff and 54% reported they expect to attain higher revenues.

The latest information about the Small Business Research Board can be found at www.ipasbrb.com.