Local Businesses Expect Sales Increase

Business is good in Muskingum County. Forty-four percent of local companies who participated in a business outlook survey expect an increase in sales in the coming months.

President of the Zanesville Muskingum County Chamber of Commerce Tom Poorman said the survey helps local businesses make predictions about the future of local economy and it shows mixed reviews.

“There’s a lot of optimism,” said Poorman. “That was a good sign. Most of the respondents are positive about their sales and employment levels and that sort of thing but there are some businesses out there that are saying ‘well we’re a little doubtful about the state of the economy’ or ‘we’re doubtful about the state of our own company.”

While sales are expected to increase in almost half the local businesses reporting, 35 percent said it won’t mean more jobs, claiming employment rates will remain the same. Businesses also report possible challenges in hopes of finding common issues the chamber can address.

“If they’re all sharing the same sorts of needs and problems and concerns, there might be programs we can put in place that will provide some assistance to area businesses,” said Poorman.

The Chamber’s Board of Directors will meet to discuss the survey and how to move forward.