INLAND EMPIRE - (INT) – The monthly Purchasing Manager’s Index (PMI) is a mixed bag.

While the overall local economy continues expanding, the Institute of Applied Research (IAR) at Cal State San Bernardino says it has slowed.

Most concerning are supply chain disruptions, inflation, worries over a possible recession and a sharp drop in the Employment Index.

Inland Empire employers continue to have difficulty hiring skilled labor. While some employees complain they can’t afford rent in the area, a few are leaving their jobs while others are moving farther away. The PMI cited employee turnover as a problem.

IAR director Dr. Barbara Sirotnik found that 58% of the purchasing managers predicted a weakening local economy over the coming three months. Thirty-four percent expect no change.

Story Date: August 17, 2022