Economy
Autumn Boost Expected by Metalformers
Written by Sandy Williams
September 27, 2017
Autumn is expected to bring stronger economic activity and more work for metalforming companies, according to the latest survey by the Precision Metalforming Association.
“Metalforming companies are greeting fall with increased optimism,” said PMA President Roy Hardy. “Predictions from our industry reflect the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics report which showed growth through some 36,000 new manufacturing jobs created last month. More work requires more workers so metalformers and our supporters in government should redouble efforts to address the skills gap and provide training opportunities.”
Current daily shipping levels spiked in September, said the PMA. Forty-one percent of survey participants reported shipping levels as higher than three months ago, compared to just 28 percent in August.
Four percent of companies surveyed had workers on short time or layoff in September, compared to 3 percent in August, and 8 percent a year ago.
Sandy Williams
Read more from Sandy WilliamsLatest in Economy
Beige Book finds growing economic, policy uncertainty
All districts reported "hesitancy and a cautious approach to business and household decisions,” according to the Beige Book.
ISM: Manufacturing continues to contract in May
May marks the third consecutive month US manufacturing activity declined, according to supply executives contributing to the Institute for Supply Management (ISM)’s latest report.
Chicago PMI decreases 4.1 points in May
The Chicago Business Barometer reports that decreases in new orders, order backlogs, and softer production pulled the index down by 4.1-points to 40.5, in May.
Architecture firms struggle through April
For the third month in a row, architecture firms reported a reduction in billings through April, according to the latest Architecture Billings Index release.
House committee blocks GOP budget proposal
The budget proposal has big implications for steel and manufacturing.