Q1 2018 Small Manufacturing Index: Business Confidence and Hiring on the Rise
Q1 2018 Small Manufacturing Index: Business Confidence and Hiring on the Rise Small manufacturers in the US have been experiencing a period of economic growth and increased confidence in the first quarter of 2018. According to the Small Manufacturers Index (SMI), released by the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), small business confidence has reached its highest level since the index began in 2014. The report also shows that many small businesses are increasing their hiring, with plans to invest in new equipment and expand their workforce. Introduction Small businesses form the backbone of the U.S. economy, accounting for 54% of…