FIN SURVEY
FIN SURVEY: Indicators for 2011

Fastener Prices — More than seven in 10 fastener companies anticipate prices increases in 2011, while 20% expect prices to remain unchanged. Only 3% predict prices will fall over the next several months.
 

Sales — Just over 80% of fastener companies predict sales growth. About 65% estimate the growth with be “moderate,” while 17% forecast “strong” gains.
 

Costs — A 66% majority forecast cost increases in 2011, with 58% expecting a “moderate” increase and 6% bracing for “strong” cost hikes. Just over 27% anticipate stable costs.
 

Employment — Close to 50% of companies intend to add jobs in 2011, while 51% expect to operate at current workforce levels.
 

Capital Investment — After five straight years of declines, the level of capital investment in the fastener industry increased in 2010, with more expected in the coming months. ©2011 GlobalFastenerNews.com