Wednesday’s business headlines
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – Here’s a look at Wednesday’s business headlines.
Indiana jobs
Indiana’s unemployment rate in September dropped to 6.2% from 6.4% in August but remained 3% higher than the same month last year.
The reason for the drop was fewer workers in the state workforce.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics says it was driven by drops in government and health and education payrolls.
Government employment declined nationally as well.
Restaurants
Finally some good news for restaurants.
The Debt Rating Company says the industry has stabilized and is now “stable.”
The rating agency said it expects industry-wide operating profit to rise by 15% in 2021 after falling by more than 30% in 2020.
Ford
Ford has unveiled a new self-driving test vehicle for 2022 launch.
It’s based on the Ford Escape Hybrid Crossover.
The upgrades include higher resolution cameras, more capable radar sensors and more advanced lidar technology, which uses laster to map surrounding areas.
Lowe’s
Lowe’s kicks off holiday shopping with a “Season of Savings” sale Thursday.
Lowe’s will have daily on-day, online-only “cyber steals” from Oct. 22 through Dec. 2 on tools, generators, pressure washers, patio sets, electronics and small appliances.
Lowe’s is also offering free Christmas tree delivery for the first time as home-bound Americans start the holidays earlier than usual.