Q4 2012 met predicted growth.

The MAFSI Business Barometer forecasts growth of 3.6 percent for the first quarter of 2013. This comes after the independent reps reported a 3.8 percent sales increase for the fourth quarter of 2012.

Additionally, 44 percent of reps report they are quoting more, while only 22 percent are quoting less; 32 percent of reps report more consultant-related activity while only 17 percent report less.

For the fourth quarter ot 2012 the regional sales increases include: 4.2 percent in the Northeast, 3.9 percent in the Midwest, 4.6 percent in the South, 2.7 percent in Canada and a slim gain of 2.5 percent in the West.

By product type: equipment rose 4.2 percent, supplies 3.6 percent, tabletop 2.8 percent, and furnishings 2.2 percent.

See the full report here.