I have worked in manufacturing for 35 years. I have seen alot of ups/downs. Hard to determine what to expect this year.
Had a piece of equipment delivered last week, 6 weeks early.
New production equipment that was taking 12 months for delivery, was quoted as 4 month delivery (due to openings in supply chains).
Constant back/forth on what is the “new” order rate from customers. Last few years, the ordering has been high due to everybody getting caught short of product. Are current lulls in orders due to inventory levels catching up and getting too high, or are customers getting pessimistic about their orders?
People are still eating out like crazy, and seem to be spending money.
I do not know if we can get thru year, treading water, will see a big decline, or some amount of gains.