Utah manufacturing activity in September climbed to the highest level in seven months as companies linked to energy production turned robust demand and high prices to their advantage.
The overall index of manufacturing conditions advanced to 61.7 from an already healthy 60.6 in August, the Goss Institute of Economic Research said Monday. A reading above 50 indicates growth; 57 is considered robust.
Among the components of the monthly index, production and new orders were strongest, with readings of 70.8 and 62.7, respectively. That suggests production will increase in the coming months and could signal that factory activity is picking up after a weakening this spring because of declining consumer demand and a drop in exports. Salt Lake Tribune
