The Manufacturer Index and Distributor Index both increased in January, according to the Economic Indicator Report from the Industrial Supply Association. The ISA Distributor Index increased to 67.2 in January from 54.6 in December, while the Manufacturer Index increased to 63.5 in January from 58 in December.

For each index, a reading above 50 percent indicates expansion, while a reading below 50 percent indicates contraction.

“The year started off strong for ISA members following a solid year in 2016,” said Bryon Shafer, general manager of ASG Industrial and chair of ISA’s Strategic Information Committee. “Comments from survey participants are overwhelmingly positive concerning the economic outlook early in 2017. The New Orders Index and the Business Activity Index also remain in positive territory, which should bode well for business in the coming months.”

For the complete report, click here.