The Chicago Business Barometer rose to 58.8 in September 2026 from 47.1 in August, far exceeding expectations of 51.2 and signaling a renewed expansion in business activity. This was the strongest pace of growth since May, driven largely by a sharp rebound in production, which jumped 15.5 points to its highest level since May and moved back into expansion after contracting in August.
New orders climbed 13.3 points, with some respondents attributing the increase to seasonal strength in demand. Supplier deliveries advanced 9.6 points, marking a 20th consecutive month of growth, while inventories declined slightly.
In contrast, employment weakened, falling 4.3 points and slipping back into contraction after just one month of expansion. Fewer firms reported higher staffing levels, and reports of workforce reductions edged up, with some respondents pointing to outsourcing as a factor.
Prices paid eased 3.7 points, returning to roughly July’s level, although overall price pressures remained elevated.
