RISMEDIA, April 25, 2011—After multiple years characterized by doubt and pessimism, relocation managers across the U.S. are expressing optimism that the worst of the recession is now in the rearview mirror. Responding to Atlas Van Lines’ 44th annual Corporate Relocation Survey, 72% of the relocation managers polled say they believe their respective companies will fare better in 2011. The optimism rate among large firms surveyed (more than 5,000 workers) jumps to 80%.
“Our relocation research has served as a solid barometer of where the American economy is headed,” said Jack Griffin, president and COO of Atlas World Group, the parent company of Atlas Van Lines. “The good news is that our survey respondents are focusing on growing their businesses and believe there will be abundant opportunity for expansion and increased revenues in 2011. This is encouraging for Atlas Van Lines and our relocation agents.”
Additional encouraging signs include:
-Fifty-four percent of executives surveyed believe the U.S. economy will improve in 2011—the highest rate of such optimism recorded since 2006.
-Thirty percent of companies plan to relocate workers this year—the highest percentage in six years.
-Eighty-seven percent of companies will spend as much or more on relocation in 2011 as in 2010—the most since 2007.
-The Midwest is now the top destination of transfers (37%) followed by the Northeast (31%), the South (28%) and West (20%).
For more information, visit www.atlasworldgroup.com and www.atlasvanlines.com.
