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January’s total business activity according to the Gardner Business Index (GBI): Metalworking increased nearly one point to close at 59.1. 

GBI: Metalworking Index

Greater levels of activity in new orders, production and backlogs all contributed to the month’s overall gain. January’s supplier deliveries reading also increased; however, in the present environment, rising readings indicate weakening supply chain performance. Those business activity readings which posted lower readings than last month’s include employment and export orders. January’s export reading fell below 50, indicating contracting activity. Separately, the decline in employment activity indicated only slowing expansion.

Production and Employment Activity: Doing More With Less

Over the last six months, metalworking job shops have learned to do more with less. Since August, production readings have remained in a tight range with an average reading near 56. Historically, such strong performance has only been reported during expansionary phases of the business cycle and recalls the expansionary periods of 2014-2015 and 2017-2018. This time, however, the business cycle is different as manufacturers contend with a very tight labor market and weak supply chains. Finding ways to raise production to meet heightened demand with fewer workers and crippled supply chains is and will remain a challenge for the foreseeable future.