Quarterly Economic Outlook: Planning for 1st Quarter 2018, published by PMMI – The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, examines macroeconomic and industry trends using ITR Economics leading indicators and production indexes to benchmark activity across the US and key regions. Focus areas include macro and sector outlook, covering industrial production and regional comparisons such as Canada and Southeast Asia; operational resilience, including supply‑chain readiness, vendor evaluation and capacity and inventory planning; workforce and talent, such as training, retention and competitive compensation; and strategic positioning, from new‑product timing to pricing. Analysis indicates emerging patterns in cyclical phases and supply pressures, and charts highlight trajectories. The report reveals where packaging and processing leaders are prioritizing investments to strengthen operational resilience.
Published by ITR Economics in January 2018. Based on secondary analysis and proprietary leading‑indicator forecasting models applied to national and industry economic series (e.g., US Industrial Production, retail sales, PMIs, corporate profits) compiled through September 2017.
