Business Trends

Many economic indicators and sub-indicators of recent months have been favoring positive trends in the economy. The construction and retail industries have been moving in a positive direction over the 2011 figures. Entrepreneurs and business owners should carefully watch and analyze the indicators for economic and business trends, and react accordingly in planning and operations.

Business Trends – Small Business Optimism Index

With a recent survey and report out by the National Federation of Independent Business Research Foundation, the Small Business Optimism Index appears on a trendy rise. LIke the index title suggests, The Small Business Optimism Index is the measure of future business optimism from surveyed participants. The April 2012 figure gained 2 points to 94.5, the highest value since 2007.

From sub-indicators in the index, most are indicating favorable views on increasing employment, capital investments, earning potential, and a general overall positive view on the future economic conditions.

Strategy Plan One

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Thursday, 19 April 2012

Green Strategies – Small Business Survey [Infographic]

Strategy Plan One

April 19, 2012

Green Strategies

Eco-friendly, green strategies are good for the environment and are also good for business as it helps build solid positive relationships with customers who will make a connection with the green conscious business. The green environmental sector is big business, with 2011 revenue estimates at nearly $330 Billion.

During February 2012 Office Depot surveyed over 1000 small businesses to gauge information on implementation of green strategies and use of green products across operations. The small business results in this infographic were surprising, with:

70% to implement green strategies in the next 2 years
61% of small businesses currently implementing green practices
82% having a recycling green strategy
56% learning about green products online

Concerns by small business implementing green strategies and products:

39% concerned with the cost
21% concerned about lack of green strategy and product options
13% concerned about clarity around going green
13% cite concerns on quality of green programs / products, and
11% state lack of time as a concern

Source: BusinessWire

Strategy Plan One

http://strategyplanone.com

Business information, resources and tips for the entrepreneur