McGladrey^® Manufacturing & Distribution Monitor - Spring 2011 Edition

Results from our most recent survey offer strong glimmers of hope for the domestic economy, as executives with U.S.-based manufacturing and distribution companies report significant improvement in their economic conditions, their optimism for future growth, and the potential for increased hiring in an industry that continues to be a lynchpin of the U.S. economy.

According to the McGladrey^® Manufacturing & Distribution Monitor – Spring 2011 edition, almost twice as many industry leaders (45%) say their businesses are “thriving and growing” than so indicated in 2010 (24%). Companies with international sales tend to be more optimistic about their prospects, with emerging markets becoming increasingly appealing. The respondents note some challenges, notably the rising cost of key inputs and raw materials, overall economic conditions in the United States and abroad, government regulations, and legislative gridlock.

The Monitor Spring 2011 survey was fielded on March 11, 2011 and data collection concluded on April 4. The Report aggregates responses from 904 executives and managers.

This is the sixth consecutive year McGladrey has polled manufacturing and distribution industry executives. For 2011, McGladrey has expanded its study and now conducts surveys quarterly.

View the Spring 2011 Report