Guelph has always prided itself on the success of its local businesses, big or small. It consistently features one of the lowest unemployment rates in Canada and is home to some of Southwestern Ontario’s best technology and manufacturing companies.

According to the latest research from the Guelph Chamber of Commerce, the good fortune is projected to continue. With sales up this year, and projected double-digit growth in 2013, results show that both members’ employees and the local economy should be in for an ever-welcome boost.

Here’s hoping Guelph continues on its strong economic path. We are very fortunate to live in a city where well-run businesses support the community and their employees. In a time where a lot of businesses have struggled and flopped, Guelph’s finest are shining as bright as ever.

For more details, here’s an article from today’s Guelph Mercury:

Many Guelph workers could be in line for increased wages next year, new survey suggests

Mercury Staff, Guelph Mercury (September 13, 2012)

GUELPH — Sales by Guelph businesses could see double-digit growth next year, if a members’ survey just released by the Guelph Chamber of Commerce is any indication.

According to a survey of the Chamber members by the organization, members responding to the survey predict their sales will be up in the range of 11 per cent in 2013.

In a release issued Wednesday by the organization that summarizes findings of the survey, Chamber President Lloyd Longfield expresses hope for the sales prediction to be realized and calls reporting of 2012 sales figures “strong.”

The survey notes they are up seven per cent from a year ago.

The survey also suggests that 72 per cent of the 143 businesses responding forecast that they would increase employee wages or benefits to some degree in 2013.

The research is less optimistic about local job creation. It respondents suggested their businesses saw seven percent growth in staffing in the past year but that they forecast no expansion in 2013.

In a communiqué to members, Longfield asserted this finding requires more research. He suggested forecasted retirements or anticipated increases in productivity next year might be factors behind the flat jobs growth prediction.

The Chamber it hosting its Economic Forecast breakfast on Friday, Sept. 21.  Dr Sherry Cooper, chief economist from BMO, will be presenting.