Chicago Manufacturing Activity Slows

Manufacturing activity in the Chicago area slowed in April, but showed continued expansion, the Institute for Supply Management-Chicago said Monday.

The group’s business index declined to a reading of 56.2, from 62.2 in March. Readings over 50 indicate expansion.

Economists had forecast the gauge would fall to 60, Bloomberg reported.

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