Manufacturers/End Users
July 31, 2026
Chicago Business Barometer still rising in July
Written by David Schollaert
The Chicago Business Barometer increased in July, maintaining an expansionary trend for a third straight month.
The Barometer edged up 0.9 points from June to 57.6 this month, according to the latest report from Market News International (MNI) and the Institute for Supply Management (ISM).
The minor gain was attributed to a surge in new orders. And while this month’s results are below a recent high of 62.7 in May, the index remains on a growth track.
The Barometer is a diffusion index. Readings above 50 indicate improving business conditions. Those below 50 indicate contraction.
Despite July’s positive result, production, employment, order backlogs and supplier deliveries all declined, with employment remaining in contraction for a fifth consecutive month.
The survey points to a cautiously positive outlook. Most respondents expect modest growth in the second half of 2026, while many companies continue investing and hiring despite high interest rates. Still, a meaningful share of firms are prioritizing cost control and delaying non-essential spending.
The Barometer surveys purchasing and supply management professionals in the Chicago area each month to gauge company-level business conditions. The survey ran from July 1-15.
