At the same time, Moutray reported, manufacturing leaders are concerned about a number of possible challenges on the policy front, many of which will culminate this fall. Almost two-thirds of respondents said it is extremely important for their business that the President and Congress make progress on funding the government for the next fiscal year and in extending the nation's debt ceiling. Part of this conversation could involve ways to avert the across-the-board federal budget cuts (sequestration).
Moreover, Moutray said, more than 90% of respondents indicated that addressing the nation's fiscal challenges was either moderately or very important for their company.
Other questions included:
"How would you characterize the business outlook for your firm right now?" Nearly 15% replied "very positive," and 61% were "somewhat positive." Less than 1% were ‘very negative."
"Over the next year, what do you expect to happen with your company's sales?" About 14% expected an increase of more than 10%, 21% foresee growth of 5-10%, and nearly 31% expect growth up to 5%. Less than 3% expect a decrease of 5% or more.
Asked about their capital investment plans, nearly 46% expect it to remain at 2012 levels, but 43% will increase that spending in increments ranging from less than 5% to more than 10%.
Nearly 18% say they'll increase export levels by more than 5%, 9% expect +3-5%, and 15% foresee a gain of up to 3%. Some 54% expect no real change, and practically none of them anticpate significant loss.
Read the entire survey results.
