American Staffing Association (04/17/14)

Economic activity increased in most regions of the U.S. in the early spring, according to the Federal Reserve Board’s latest report on regional economies (known as the “beige book”). Consumer spending and manufacturing increased in most districts. Labor market conditions were mixed but generally positive, and several districts reported difficulty finding skilled workers. Two major New York staffing firms reported that labor demand has strengthened, especially in the financial sector, and a company in Minnesota noted an increase in the rate of temporary employees becoming permanent hires.