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Manufacturing activity in the Chicago area expanded in February, the Institute for Supply Management-Chicago said Thursday.

ISM’s business index rose to a reading of 56.8, the highest since March, from 55.6 in January. Readings over 50 indicate expansion.

Economists had forecast a reading of 54, Bloomberg News reported.

Chicago is a major center of U.S. manufacturing, which is one of trucking’s largest and most important customers.