Report: Mid-Market Firms Focus on Cost, Talent, Tech
A Q1 2026 report from CBIZ indicates that leaders of middle-market businesses are prioritizing cost management, talent strategy, and technology investment. The survey offers insight into how these companies are navigating economic challenges while planning for growth.
- The report, which surveyed over 1,300 clients and professionals, found that an overwhelming 84% of mid-market businesses are prioritizing cost optimization and productivity. - Rising labor costs were cited as a significant challenge by 41% of business leaders, influencing their strategic planning for 2026. - In addition to labor, leaders identified pricing pressures, working capital constraints, and shifting customer demand as key factors impacting their plans for the year. - Technology and AI modernization are a concern for 41% of the businesses surveyed, signaling a deliberate and cautious approach to tech investment. - When it comes to talent, 43% of companies are actively investing in acquisition and retention strategies to navigate the competitive labor market. - According to CBIZ President and CEO Jerry Grisko, the focus on efficiency and deliberate investment in talent and technology indicates "pragmatic confidence" among mid-market leaders despite ongoing economic pressures. - In response to the report's findings, CBIZ has launched a new initiative called "Insights. Applied." to help middle-market companies implement strategies focused on efficiency, talent, and technology.
