Though optimism for the future dipped nearly 10% from the first quarter in 2019, still nearly 80% of manufacturers have a positive outlook for their business according to the 2019 Second Quarter Manufacturer’s Outlook Survey.

Manufacturers cite trade uncertainties (56%) and the inability to find skilled workers (69%) as their top challenges, they remain mostly upbeat. Over the next 12 months, they expect a 3.4% growth rate in both sales and production and a 1.6% increase in full-time employment. Though these are weak ratings when compared to the last 10 quarters, they still represent growth.

You can review the entire report on the National Association of Manufacturer’s website here.