ASA Staffing Index Remains at 100 for 13th Week

The American Staffing Association reported today that its Weekly Staffing Index of temporary, contract and freelance employment for the week ending December 12 remained at at a level of 101 for the second consecutive week.  Except for a Thanksgiving-related drop in November, the ASA Staffing Index has remained at 100 or above for the last 13 weeks, which is the first time since 2007 of that many consecutive weeks at an index level of 100 or above.  Although the December readings this year are below the levels in December 2007, the index has improved every week this year compared to last year, and the positive trend indicates ongoing improvements in the demand for temporary employment.  As a leading indicator of labor market conditions, the ASA index suggests that we can look forward to broader-based gains next year in employment levels.