“In 2011, construction equipment manufacturing kept improving from the depths of the recession as the economy stabilized. Earlier this year, it looked like the economy was truly turning around, but we still have some uncertainty in both U.S. and international markets and this is hampering stronger, more sustainable growth,” said AEM President Dennis Slater.


“2012 is an election year, which does not bode well for meaningful action in Washington; both sides are already in full campaign mode, it seems, and this presents a real danger of a stalling economy," Slater added.



“Congress needs to focus on manufacturing policies that create and maintain jobs, not unnecessary and excessive regulatory and tax policy burdens. That is why we are continuing and expanding our ‘I Make America’ grassroots effort; it promotes a better understanding and appreciation of the vital role of manufacturing to a thriving American economy—providing good jobs, tax revenues and investment in local communities, for example,” Slater said.


“Action on federal highway funding will bring some stability to an important industry segment,” Slater said. “A well-maintained and adequate transportation system is critical not just for our sector but also for business and our nation overall; it is essential for the safe and efficient movement of people and goods and to keep the U.S. competitive in the global marketplace.”


Slater added, “Export sales have been crucial to help many manufacturers get through the recession, and they still contribute greatly to a positive balance sheets for many companies. That’s why export-friendly policies such as free trade agreements are important to keep American companies in business.”



Scope of the Survey


This year’s AEM survey summary results cover approximately 40 different types of whole machines, attachments and components. Survey responses predicted industry-wide expectations rather than individual company performance, and unit sales rather than company profitability.