Manufacturing Index Highest Since 1997

A quarterly index of manufacturing economic indicators hit its highest level in nearly six years in September. The Manufacturers Alliance/MAPI index reached 68, up from 60 in June and the highest number since December 1997's score of 71.

The index reflects the views of 54 senior financial executives in a broad range of manufacturing industries. The index includes information on orders, prospective shipments, backlogs, exports, inventories, investments, research and development, capacity utilization and profit margins.

Every index except profit margins increased, which "appears to signal that the manufacturing sector is finally beginning to cover," says Donald Norman, chief economist of Manufacturers Alliance/MAPI.

Go here to read more.

This is good news and hopefully a sign that a more robust recovery is on its way for the manufacturing sector. And hopefully greater employment gains in local manufacturing operations.