Manufacturing in 2011 – Up, Down, or Sideways?

News Our Perspective

Although there are many polls out there indicating the manufacturing pundits’ opinion on 2011, it seems we’re all still guessing about the future. Some say up, but slowly. Others say up and steady. There a few saying up, but volatile. From our view of the world, I think I will agree with the last group. We can clearly show an upward trend beginning in June 2009, but the path is anything but steady. Month to month can fluctuate +/- 40%, but year to year is measurably up. It’s a tough way to plan and execute. Is this the new normal, or will we finally settle down to some stability, perhaps with a new landscape? We’ll keep on the lookout for any clues.