The Power Transmission Distributors Association has released their quarterly survey report. As always, they surveyed the largest companies in their membership, and growth was strong in Q1 2014, up again from strong growth Q4 2013. The new composite ranking 63.6, a substantial increase over last quarter’s reading of 60.2.
The survey asks members to look at a number of areas in their business, including new orders, sales, production, employment, and inventory, among others. The results have been encouraging each quarter for several years now.
However, all is not beer and skittles in the world of motion control. When they were asked their expectations for 2014 in Q4 of 2013, respondents predicted 7% growth, on average. In the most recent survey, the average was down to 6%. Either they’re feeling less optimistic now that they did at the beginning of the new year, or they’re anticipating issues now that they hadn’t seen coming.
Predictions for 2014 throughout the motion control industry were optimistic, with many predictions centering on how increased consumer confidence would convince manufacturers to invest more in new technologies. Consumers haven’t shown that much confidence. If that gap is affecting the equation, it may just be a correction as the glass that looked half full actually has to slake the thirst of the optimists.
If you’re not investing in new technologies, you may need our help with your Indramat legacy drives, controls, and motors. We offer complete support for Indramat electric motion control.