Manufacturers of metalformed products anticipate a mixed outlook for the next three months, according to the latest report from the Precision Metalforming Association (PMA).

The latest PMA Business Conditions Report, issued Nov. 20, found that only 14% of surveyed manufacturers expect an increase in general economic activity in the next three months — down from 18% in October. 35% percent of respondents expect a decrease — the same percentage as in October — while 51% of respondents expect no change in activity (47% in Oct.).

Meanwhile, metalformers predict an increase in incoming orders in the next three months, with 31% of respondents affirming a rise, up from 21% in October, while 36% expect no change, (down from 40% in Oct.), and only 33% expect a decrease, down from 39% the prior month.

Metaformers experienced a slight dip in average daily shipping levels in November, with 40% expecting a decrease (up from 38% in Oct.). 39% percent reported no change (up from 38% in September), 38% reported an increase (31% in Oct.) and just 21% reported an increase in levels (down from 26% in Oct..

Other notes:

• On the staffing front, 14% of respondents reported having workers on short time or layoff in November (8% in Oct.), while 26% indicated they are expanding their workforce (29% in Oct.)
• Lead times were unchanged in November, with 9% of respondents reporting an increase

“PMA’s November Business Conditions Report shows that members continue to be cautious about expected economic activity over the next three months,” said PMA President David Klotz. “This likely reflects ongoing uncertainty in the market due in part to supply-chain challenges, including continued increases in prices of key inputs such as steel and aluminum. However, it is notable that more members are predicting an increase in incoming orders – a positive sign of the industry’s resilience.”