Posted May 19, 2011
ISM: Growth to continue
A new forecast from the Institute for Supply Management says economic growth is expected to continue in the United States throughout the remainder of 2011.
Sixty-eight percent of manufacturer respondents to ISM's spring 2011 Semiannual Economic Forecast predict revenues will be 13.2 percent greater, 12 percent expect a 13.2 percent decline, and 20 percent foresee no change. This yields significant expectations for growth in 2011, as manufacturers' net revenues are expected to increase 7.5 percent.
By contrast, in December 2010, the panel of supply management executives predicted a 5.6 percent increase in 2011 revenues compared to 2010. With operating capacity improving to 83.2 percent, an expected capital expenditure increase of 17.9 percent, and prices paid expected to increase 7.4 percent for the full year of 2011, manufacturers will be challenged to grow revenues and contain costs through the remainder of the year.
"Much of manufacturing has emerged from the economic downturn and is experiencing significant growth. Capacity utilization is back to typical levels and manufacturers are significantly investing in their businesses. The positive forecast for revenue growth and improved employment will drive the continuation of the recovery in the sector," said Norbert J. Ore, chair of the ISM Manufacturing Business Survey Committee.
The 17 industries reporting expectations of growth in revenue during the year — listed in order — are: Plastics & Rubber Products; Fabricated Metal Products; Primary Metals; Apparel, Leather & Allied Products; Machinery; Computer & Electronic Products; Transportation Equipment; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Printing & Related Support Activities; Wood Products; Chemical Products; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; Textile Mills; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Furniture & Related Products; and Paper Products.
