Strong growth in Western Canada is still driving he country’s economy, with businesses predicting stronger sales and more investment, according to a Bank of Canada survey.

The quarterly poll of 100 of the country’s top firms indicates sales will grow faster over the next year, in comparison to the past 12 months. Optimism about sales growth is spread across the country, but not as strong in Eastern Canada.

Businesses say the economy continues to operate at full tilt but inflation expectations remain within the central bank’s target range of 1% to 3%.

The survey, conducted between May 10 and June 7, indicates the balance of opinion on investment in machinery is down slightly while remaining strong overall.