April 19, 2023
Toward the end of the first quarter of 2023, the economy began to show signs of inflation tempering without too much damage done to the consumer. Retail sales were on plan as we began the year but uncertainty as to the strength of the consumer loomed. Sales slightly exceeded plans at CR Millwork and Amana Insurance, while the Amana Golf Club (due to weather) and Hotel Millwright fell short of budget, although Hotel Millwright was on par with last year. Crop sales weren’t as strong as anticipated in the first quarter. However, this is simply timing as Cargill has taken corn and soybean shipments later than expected.