The January ISA Economic Indicator Report (EIR) from the Industrial Supply Association showed that manufacturers and distributors finished 2016 in growth mode.
The ISA Manufacturer Index decreased to 58.0 in December from 61.4 in November. Meanwhile, the ISA Distributor Index increased to 54.6 in December from 53.5 in November.
For each index, a reading above 50% indicates expansion, while a reading below 50% indicates contraction.
“While growth slowed somewhat for manufacturers in December, all things considered, 2016 was a good year for ISA member companies,” said Bryon Shafer, general manager of ASG Industrial and chair of ISA’s Strategic Information Committee. “Except for a one-month dip in July when each index dropped below 50, manufacturers and distributors experienced expansion throughout the year.”