Good news travels fast, and this week, we share some very positive sales figures out of the US. Some of the biggest manufacturers posted significant rises in revenues and profits in the last quarter. Both Oshkosh and Manitowoc report increases of more than 7% for the quarter to March 31, while Hyster Yale sales also rose modestly. Importantly, there were also rises in profits, so it's not just about shifting inventory.
With the gloom still hanging over parts of Europe, the positive figures will be most encouraging, especially to the multi-nationals with interests in multiple markets.