In 2019, Opinion of American Manufacturing Industry

​According to the results of the Thomas 2019 Survey on U.S. Manufacturing published last week, America's brand remains strong in the eyes of consumers despite some misperceptions.

Perceptions of U.S. Manufacturing
While only 25% of the survey's thousand digital respondents think the current state of manufacturing is either growing or stable but strong, 95% of all respondents stated that manufacturing is important to the U.S. economy.

A Preference for U.S.-Made Products
Of all respondents, 62% prefer to buy products made in the U.S. While 55% believe "Made in America" product quality is higher than that of products manufacturers in Asia or Central America, 57% responded that European-made products are generally of the same quality as those made in America.

Also in the international sphere, 46% of Americans feel increasing tariffs on imported foreign goods and services is too disruptive to the U.S. economy.
Relatedly, a combined total of 87% of respondents feel a strong manufacturing sector is very or at least somewhat important to national security.

The Future of Manufacturing
Perceptions of manufacturing careers are improving; in the survey, 60% of respondents said they would likely encourage someone entering the workforce to pursue a career in manufacturing. To further support industry in the face of the skills gaps and other workforce challenges, 79% of respondents think government funding should be used to help apprenticeship initiatives. 

Respondents were also increasingly conscious of the shift toward going green; 75% of respondents report that sustainability has a very important or large impact on the goods and services they purchase.

Continued Growth in the U.S. Manufacturing Sector
Thomas President and CEO Tony Uphoff is hopeful for the continued future growth of American manufacturing.

“In reality, there has never been a more exciting time for industry as output is at an all-time high and job growth continues to rise," said Uphoff. “We are pleased to see the value of American manufactured brands remain strong, which matches the overall positive trends we’re seeing in the U.S. manufacturing industry."
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Article Source : thomasnet