MFG.com has reported the latest MFGWatch survey results for the 4^th quarter and they are both interesting and heartening in some areas.  The survey represents a cross section of industries including consumer products, machinery tools & equipment, textiles, aerospace, automotive, medical, and defense.  Here’s a quick view of the highlights:

• 53% of respondents reported growth in company sales with only 18% reporting a decline.
• 26% increased their staff, 57% stayed the same (but purchased more technology), and 14% reported a decrease in staff.
• 22% returned production into or closer to North America from a low-cost country while 69% did not