ROCK SPRING, Ga. — Manufacturing indicators are on the rise for the first time in two years, a state official said Tuesday.
“We’re moving in the right direction, and our attitudes are moving in the right direction,” John Zegers, director of Georgia’s Center of Innovation for Manufacturing, told the Walker County Chamber of Commerce.
Speaking at the Chamber’s Manufacturers Appreciation Day event, Mr. Zegers cited positive trends in the Purchasing Manager Index, which measures sales, inventories, new orders and production around the state. In February and March, the index inched above the threshold that indicates manufacturers are expanding, he said.
“Hopefully, you’re starting to see what we’re seeing in the rest of the state in us turning the corner,” Mr. Zegers told the crowd.
At the meeting, some Chamber members wore badges asking “Have You Hugged a Manufacturer Today?” According to statistics from the Walker County Commission’s office, 65 manufacturers call the county home, accounting for 5,300 jobs.
“If you survived 2009, we appreciate you,” said Rhonda Beasley, chairwoman of the Chamber’s Business and Industry Committee.
Mr. Zegers cautioned businesses to continue striving for efficiency and innovation after revenues pick back up.
“Don’t let success impede your progress,” he said.
Manufacturing managers present Monday said Mr. Zegers’ message rang true, but they said production hadn’t picked up as much as they would like.
David Whelan, vice president of manufacturing for Blue Bird in Walker County, said demand might be up a little, but for the most part, it was running flat over the last two years.
Jon Steed, vice president of Curbs Plus in Rossville, said business has increased but still is well behind 2008 figures.
But it’s all about perspective, he said.
“Anything is up from last year,” Mr. Steed said.
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