Chicago Manufacturing Activity Expands for Second Month

Manufacturing activity in the Chicago area expanded for a second month, the Institute for Supply Management-Chicago said Friday.

ISM’s business index rose to a reading of 51.6, from 50.4 in November. Readings over 50 indicate expansion.

Economists had forecast the index would rise to 51, Bloomberg reported.

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