Survey: More small business owners plan to spend in 2012

ByABC News
February 26, 2012, 1:54 PM

— -- Small business owners are looking to spend in 2012.

That's according to the just-released Wells Fargo/Gallup Small Business Index, which surveyed 600 small business owners in January. It found that that 28% of small business owners plan to increase their company's capital spending in the next 12 months.

That's in line with a smaller survey conducted earlier this month with members of CNBC.com's Small Business Council. When asked if they were planning on spending in 2012, we heard a resounding yes.

Among the planned spending, most of it already in the works: a restaurant renovation; the purchase of a new building for a retail outlet, a delivery van; and, for several of the respondents, new manufacturing equipment that will cost each company $100,000 to $250,000.

The Wells Fargo/Gallup survey brings more positive news: The 28% who say they will spend is the highest percentage the index has recorded since January 2008.

One reason business owners may be considering spending: They believe it will be easier to get a loan in 2012.

According to the Wells Fargo/Gallup index, 25% say credit was somewhat or very easy to get the past 12 months, highest percentage since April 2009. Looking ahead, 27% say it will be somewhat or very easy to get credit the next 12 months; again, the highest since April 2009, and up from 22% in October 2011.

While a hefty 38% expect it will remain difficult to obtain credit, that number is down from 43% in October.

The report notes that despite the positive trends, economic realities still hover over most business owners' spreadsheets. Rising gas prices and fragile consumer confidence levels could drag down the economy, it notes.

And if consumers aren't spending, neither is the most optimistic business owner.

Copyright 2012 CNBC.com.