The March 2011 Precision Metalforming Association (PMA) Business Conditions Report, showed that “metalforming companies anticipate steady business conditions during the next three months.”

Although down 2% since February, 49% of participants in March forecast improved economic activity for the next three months. March saw little change in average daily shipping levels. Also, metalforming companies predict solid incoming orders for, with 52% expecting an increase in orders.

Compared to 42% of employees on short time or layoff last year, March 2011 saw a much lower 12%, also down from 13% in February 2011.

“Results of the March Business Conditions Report are quite positive and consistent with results from PMA’s Monthly Orders and Shipments Survey for January, which reported a month-over-month increase of 18 percent in orders booked and a 15 percent increase in shipments in January, after a seasonal dip in November and December 2010,” said William E. Gaskin, PMA president. “Orders and shipments of PMA member companies surged back above their 12-month rolling averages in January. The metalforming industry continues to experience growth in many market areas, with agriculture/off-highway, automotive, defense, medical products and aerospace being among the strongest sectors.”