May 2008

Source: Statistics Canada
 
Canadian economic output slumped again in February, after recovering in January from a steep decline in December. Several factors have contributed to the recent weakness in real gross domestic product (GDP).
 
The new Family Day holiday in Ontario shortened work hours in February for many firms. Weather also has been erratic, with record snow this winter in much of Eastern Canada and the coldest weather in years in Western Canada. Meanwhile, the US economy remained sluggish in the first quarter, as the worsening state of its housing market offset higher exports.
 
But mostly, growth in Canada has been restrained by large drops in auto assemblies. The recent volatility of auto production in Canada is in marked contrast …

According to the Institute for Supply Management’s third salary survey, average salaries for supply chain professionals were:
 
Chief Purchasing/Supply Management/Sourcing: $128,821
Vice President, Purchasing/Supply Management/Sourcing: $210,419
Director, Purchasing/Supply Management/Sourcing: $125,833
Manager, Purchasing/Supply Management/Sourcing: $90,088
Experienced staff member (3 or more years of experience): $68,537
Entry-level staff member (less than 3 years of experience): $49,682
 
Additional findings:
Respondents who hold one or more certifications reported an average salary that was higher than those who do not. Overall, those who hold one or more certifications earned an average of $94,648, while those who do not hold a …

Hopes for something more than a temporary rebound in the U.S. economy anytime soon could be frustrated, but the manufacturing outlook in particular might be somewhat brighter due to continuing strength in exports, according to a new report.
 
The Manufacturers Alliance/MAPI Quarterly Economic Forecast predicts that inflation-adjusted GDP growth will slow to 1.3% in 2008 before improving to 1.9% in 2009. The 2009 forecast is down from 2.5% projected in the February outlook. By supplying major assumptions for the economy and running simulations through the Global Insight Macroeconomic Model, the Alliance generates unique macroeconomic and industry forecasts.
 
The 2008 recession looks like it is going to be milder and more prolonged rather than normal,”said Daniel J. …