In part one of the Baird/tED magazine survey on 2026 second quarter performance, we pointed out the growth in the quarter, current trends in pricing and revenue, and a forecast for the rest of the year.
In part 2, we examine supply chain conditions, data center exposure and demand, potential positive and negative supply chain trends, and what respondents view as the most significant risk over the next 12 months.
People from 23 companies, which make up more than $10 billion in annual revenue, responded to this quarter’s survey. When asked, “Compared to one year ago, how would you assess current supply chain delivery conditions?”, most people reported improvements or no change.
And when asked, “How do you expect supply chain conditions to trend over the remainder of 2026?”, the response showed signs of hope for improvement.
We’ve heard plenty of speculation and opportunity related to data center business, where some areas of the country are seeing significant business, while others are either slow or in the middle of debate on moratoriums. Baird and tED magazine posed the question, “Approximately what percentage of your overall business is related to data centers in 2026?”, with responses split between very little and a lot.
- 0-15% of business related to data centers – 78%
- 16-30% of business related to data centers – 13%
- 31-45% of business related to data centers – 9%
But most respondents are expecting an increase in data center business over the final 6 months of 2026.
- Increase in data center business – 57%
- No change – 43%
When asked about trends that they are most excited about and most concerned about over the next 12 months, the responses varied, with most of the risk related to circumstances that are difficult to control.
Finally, when asked about the most significant risk to business in the next 12 months, respondents remain concerned about world unrest.
- Policy/External Shocks (tariffs, geopolitics) – 47%
- Cost Inflation (materials, labor) – 25%
- Weaker Demand/Recession Fears – 22%
- Interest Rates/Financial Conditions – 6%
tED magazine and Baird will have the third quarter survey released in October. If you would like to be added to the mailing list to take the survey, contact tED magazine by email at ted@naed.org.
Tagged with Baird, economy, research