Report: I.E. manufacturing industry struggles in August

     The Inland Empire's manufacturing industry continued to struggle in August, according to a report released Monday afternoon.

     Last month, researchers with Cal State San Bernardino's Institute of Applied Research and Policy Analysis said weakness in the local manufacturing sector was becoming a trend.

     Not much has changed.

     The August purchasing manager's index came in at 47.7. A number below 50 equals contraction, and above 50 means growth. July's index was 41.2.

     Since October, the local reading has been below 50 more often than above it -- a phenomenon unseen since mid- to late-2006 and mid-2000 to late 2001.

     Managers at 50 companies throughout San Bernardino and Riverside counties were surveyed by the institute.

     Only 4 percent said they think the local economy will strengthen in the near future. The rest said the economy will remain weak or get even weaker.

     June's report had stated that oil and raw material prices were eating away profit from local companies' bottom lines at a record rate.

     --matthew.wrye@inlandnewspapers.com