"We saw significant recovery for much of the U.S. manufacturing sector in 2010," said Norbert Ore, chairman of the ISM Manufacturing Business Survey Committee, in a statement. "The recovery centered on strength in autos, metals, food, machinery, computers and electronics, while those industries tied primarily to housing continue to struggle."
Strong global demand and a weaker dollar has also helped boost manufacturing activity, said Ore.
New orders and production were bright spots in the latest report, and these components are likely to push the index higher in the first quarter of 2011, he said.
The component for new orders rose to 60.9 from 56.6 in November, while the production measure picked up to 60.7 from 55.
The employment component slowed to 55.7 from 57.5.
Manufacturing (ISM)Hemlock job fair in Clarksville draws 400 applicants
