FEBRUARY 1989
Proportion of businesses whose sales grew, in % change over previous year
Actual 1987 Actual 1988 Estimated 1989
over 1986: over 1987: over 1988:
Decreased 15% 13% 7%
Increased less than 5% 28 25 31
Increased 5-10% 19 20 27
Increased more than 10% 38 42 35
Small business owners remain optimistic for 1989; more than 60% predict at least a 5% increase in sales; 35% predict an increase greater than 10%.
Source: Arthur Andersen & Co. Small Business Survey, 1988.