Chip-Making Equipment Sales Posted a 6% Rise

http://www.microphotonics.com

Bizjournals.com reports that the worldwide sales of semiconductor-manufacturing equipment have posted a 6 percent increase compared to last year’s output. Manufacturing technology suppliers association SEMI (San Jose, California-based) views this as a good sign.

Asian markets such as China, Japan and North Korea are among the top sellers of semiconductor-manufacturing equipment, with Taiwan leading in sales at $10.65 billion and Japan coming next at $9.31 billion.

While some industries find it hard to rise above the struggling economy, other industries continue to experience favorable sales. This means there are still hope for business and trade in the international market, if not across the country.

Slowing Economy Weakens the Boating Industry

http://www.bullockmarine.com

The $40-billion boat industry is struggling to keep afloat amid the slowing US economy. In fact, some companies that manufacture sail boats and power boats have already closed shops. This is saddening and a great cause of concern.

Manufacturing.net reports that a poor consumer confidence, spiraling gas prices and the national economic downturn is testing the limits of the boating industry. “It’s a challenging time,” admitted Bill McGill, chairman and president of Clearwater, Florida-based MarineMax, Inc. The big boat and yacht retailer made some downsizing efforts that removed 10 percent of its work force because of poor profit.

Definitely, more and more industry are starting to feel the economic downturn. I think it is safe to assume that if the US economy worsens in the coming months, more companies will decide to lie low and worker lay offs will hit more headlines.

For the link to the article, click here.