Manufacturers are optimistic for 2010

According to an article in the marketing trade magazine BtoB, a new survey found that more than 75% of manufacturing executives surveyed believe that the economy will improve by the 2nd quarter of 2010 or sooner. The survey was conducted in July, and also revealed that 35% of the executives expect their businesses to grow by the end of 2009. Since this is "that time of year" when we are deeply involved in marketing and strategy discussions with our clients, I can confirm that we are hearing the same thing. Not that everyone is thinking it is time to just start throwing money around and celebrating...those days are over. But it is true that companies are more focused and strategic than I can ever remember. From considering new ways to do things, to evaluating the real value of current practices, to demanding real accountability and ROI for their marketing efforts, people are serious about the future. And so are we. If you want to talk about strategies, ideas and marketing that are accountable, transparent and cost-effective, just let me or one of my colleagues know.

Click here to read more about the new survey of manufacturing execs