Machine Tool Industry Study.
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to review various aspects of the machine tool industry such as leadtimes, foreign competition and technological standing. The industry consists, for the most part, of small firms. Annual sales for the entire industry total less than 2.5 billion dollars. The most noteworthy economic characteristics of the industry is the severe cyclic nature of new order bookings. During periods of high orders, shortages of highly skilled workers occur. Cash flow problems during business cutbacks interface with productivity improving programs. The industry has not kept pace with national productivity gains. R and D expenditures are at an extremely low level. Foreign competition has increased with the result that foreign purchases of U. S. tools have diminished while U. S. purchases of foreign tools have increased. The industry is currently experiencing a period of good times; new orders are at an all time high. DOD procurement of machine tools is not a major factor in the market. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1978
- Accession Number
- ADA067999
Entities
People
- James Sullivan
- Otto Hintz
- Robert Van Parys