INLAND EMPIRE – (INT) – Area purchasing managers are expressing varied opinions about the state of the local economy 7-months into the COVID-19 pandemic.

One-third surveyed by the Institute of Applied Research at Cal State San Bernardino believe the economy will strengthen the last quarter of the year, 43% think it will remain the same although struggling and 24 percent say it will weaken.

The latest Purchasing Manager’s Index shows continuing weakness in the manufacturing sector and overall economy.

“Clearly our respondents do not agree with the relatively few economists who believe that a “V” shaped recovery is likely,” Dr. Barbara Sirotnik (Director, Institute of Applied Research) said.

Story Date: September 6, 2020