KALAMAZOO, MI (WHTC-AM/FM, Sept. 16, 2026) – The West Michigan economy is maintaining momentum, but for how long?
In August, for the eighth straight month, the survey of purchasing managers in the Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo markets that comprise the West Michigan Current Business Trends report was “favorable,” according to Dr. Brian Long, director of supply management research with the Seidman College of Business at Grand Valley State University. Although new orders were flat, production, lead times and employment indices rose, a signal of continued strength in the region’s industrial economy.
However, Long admits the specter of a recession, spurred by high tariffs and disruptions to global shipping, can’t be ignored.
The economist added that both short- and long-term measures of business confidence are still holding up at levels higher than that of a year ago.
For more on the GVSU West Michigan Current Business Trends report, click here.
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