Metalformers See Slight Dip Coming in Business Conditions

The current average daily shipping level was steady in April. Fewer firms reported workforce on short term or layoff during the month, 6 percent in April compared to 9 percent in March.

“Overall, the second quarter of 2017 continues to look very positive,” said William E. Gaskin, PMA president. “Metalforming companies reported rising shipments for the fifth consecutive month in April, with 86% reporting that they expect new orders to rise or at least equal current levels over the next three months. Concerns over the ability to hire skilled employees are rising, as only 6% of companies reported having employees on short-time or layoff. And 50% of PMA members reported that they are expanding their workforce. PMA members are expressing growing concerns that the U.S. Congress has not effectively addressed health care costs and does not yet have consensus on tax reform for corporations and Sub S entities, or on straightforward issues such as making it possible to repatriate offshore profits. These reforms would help boost the ability to invest in U.S. operations of multinational companies.”