New paradigm or twilight zone?
Economic growth remained strong through the third quarter of 1997, and early signs pointed to a good fourth quarter as well.
By Staff
Economic growth remained strong through the third quarter of 1997, and early signs pointed to a good fourth quarter as well. So why have leadtimes been so well behaved? Economists talk of a new paradigm in which the bar is being raised for the long-term growth potential for the economy. Any pressure now felt on leadtimes should lessen in 1998. Watch for continued, albeit minor, declines in leads during the coming year.
LEADTIMES
Dec.1997 Change % 1996 1997 1998
Gears 4.2 -7.6 -1.9 -5.6
Pumps 4.2 -5 -5.4 -1.9
Special fasteners 6.2 -4.7 -3.4 0
Valves 3.2 -0.4 -7 -2.7
Hydraulic cylinders 5.8 -16.5 24.8 -0.5
Historical data: Purchasing Magazine. Forecasts: Cahners Economics
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2012 Salary Survey
In a year when manufacturing continued to lead the economic rebound, it makes sense that plant manager bonuses rebounded. Plant Engineering’s annual Salary Survey shows both wages and bonuses rose in 2012 after a retreat the year before.
Average salary across all job titles for plant floor management rose 3.5% to $95,446, and bonus compensation jumped to $15,162, a 4.2% increase from the 2010 level and double the 2011 total, which showed a sharp drop in bonus.