“Industrial production activity is increasing even though factory operating rates remain very low by historical comparison,” said Hal Vandiver, MHIA executive vice president of business development.
“MHIA believes that demand created as the economy shifts from recession into recovery mode is the principal impetus for improvement over the next few quarters in manufacturing, warehousing and distribution.”
In addition, material handling equipment shipments contracted 34.4% in 2009 and are forecasted to grow 1-2% in 2010. Domestic demand contracted 34.7% in 2009 and will grow 1-2% in 2010, according to the MHEM forecast. Exports and imports will improve in 2010 at about the same rate.
The MHEM forecast of material handling equipment manufacturing is released each quarter by MHIA and looks 12 to 18 months forward to anticipate changes in the material handling and logistics marketplace.
