Automation industry poised for growth: survey

A recent survey involving members of the Control System Integrators Association (CSIA) points to an upswing in the automation industry.

 
According to the J.P. Morgan/CSIA System Integrator Survey, the automation industry is experiencing a “steady lift” entering the second quarter. The global survey of professionals in the automation and controls industry shows that food and beverage, chemical, and oil and gas — among the end markets served by CSIA members — are reporting increased activity.
 
“The results from the latest J.P. Morgan/CSIA automation survey have respondents forecasting growth anywhere from five per cent to 15 per cent in the coming months,” said Bob Lowe, executive director of CSIA. “This suggests that more plant managers, directors of quality and other industry clients are turning to control system integrators to drive automation and more efficient operations.”
 
Alan Beaulieu, noted economist and president of ITR Economics, echoed the optimism about the future of U.S. manufacturing. As keynote speaker for the 2014 CSIA Executive Conference in San Diego, Calif., Beaulieu told a record crowd that control system integrators should prepare for expansion in their industry.
 
“Right now, inflation and interest rates are low, so Beaulieu is encouraging control system integrators to invest in improving productivity and building company strategies,” said Lowe. “The same message applies to industry clients who are upgrading plants while costs are low in order to get a better return on investment.”