WASHINGTON—U.S. factory output increased for the fifth straight month in June as manufacturers cranked out more aircraft, chemicals and furniture. The modest gain underscored manufacturing’s role in helping return the economy to growth after a grim first quarter.
"Happy Days Are Here Again” was a popular song back in the 1930s. Assemblers in many industries have been singing an updated version of the tune lately, because the new golden age of American manufacturing has begun.
WASHINGTON—New factory orders rose for the third straight month, up 0.7 percent in April. This extended the 1.7 percent and 1.5 percent gains seen in February and March, respectively, and it was largely a sign that manufacturers have begun to recover from significant weather-related softness in December and January.
WASHINGTON—Manufacturing expanded in May at the fastest pace this year, as American assembly-line workers responded to increased orders by cranking up production. The Institute for Supply Management’s factory index rose to 55.4 from the prior month’s 54.9. Readings above 50 indicate expansion.
WASHINGTON—The Obama administration has named 12 regions of the U,S. that will receive special attention under a new federal program designed to help make them more attractive to manufacturing companies.
TEMPE, AZ—Economic activity in the manufacturing sector expanded in April for the 11th consecutive month, and the overall economy grew for the 59th consecutive month, according to the latest data from the Institute for Supply Management.
BOSTON—A new ranking of the competitiveness of the world’s top 25 exporting countries says the United States is once again a “rising star” of global manufacturing thanks to falling domestic natural gas prices, rising worker productivity and a lack of upward wage pressure.
WASHINGTON—U.S. factory orders rose in February after two straight months of declines. New orders for manufactured goods rose 1.6 percent from January to $488.8 billion, the Commerce Department said.
WASHINGTON—The U.S. manufacturing expansion accelerated in March, driven by gains in production and orders, in the latest sign that the economy is shaking off its winter doldrums and building momentum into the second quarter. The Institute for Supply Management’s index increased to 53.7 from 53.2 a month earlier. Readings above 50 indicate expansion.
WASHINGTON—Manufacturing CEOs are more optimistic this year, but they’re worried about rising energy costs and slowing growth in new markets, according to a new survey conducted by consulting firm PWC.