Chicago Manufacturing Activity Expands

Manufacturing activity in the Chicago area expanded in January, the Institute for Supply Management-Chicago said Thursday.

ISM’s business index rose to a reading of 55.6, the highest since April, from 50 in December. Readings over 50 indicate expansion.

Economists had forecast the index would rise to 50.5, Bloomberg reported.

Chicago is a major center of U.S. manufacturing, which is one of trucking’s largest and most important customers.