KSU: Georgia manufacturing declined in 2011

Atlanta Business Chronicle

Georgia manufacturing sector rating dropped 6 points on the year due in part to new order and production declines, according to the Econometric Center at Kennesaw State University's Coles College of Business.

Georgia's Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) -- a reading of economic activity in the state's manufacturing sector -- was down 6.4 points from 53.8 in January 2011.

A PMI reading above 50 shows manufacturing activity is expanding, while a reading below 50 shows it is contracting.

The PMI also was down 5 points to 47.4 in December 2011.

"As we start the new year, there is no clear trend for 2012," said Don Sabbarese, professor of economics and director of the Econometric Center at the Coles College of Business. "2011 was a year of two separate trends: We saw growth in new orders and production during the first six months, but they were down significantly in the second half. Manufacturers are still trying to sort out what this means for 2012."