INLAND EMPIRE – (INT) – The region’s economy continues to grow, but one segment appears to be lagging.

A new report suggests the manufacturing sector is no longer growing. The Purchasing Manager’s Index has fallen below a baseline of 50 for three consecutive months.

The Institute of Applied Research at Cal State San Bernardino found that December’s Employment Index fell below 50 for the first time since last January. The Inventory Index was also down.

In spite of latest numbers, Purchasing Managers’ optimism about the state of the Inland Empire economy for the First Quarter of the New Year is brighter. Thirty-one percent of the Purchasing Managers commented that they expect the local economy to be stronger. Fifty-two percent feel the economy will be unchanged and only 17% believe it will weaken.

Story Date: January 11, 2017