There are a few reports of increasing material and finished goods prices but they are not widespread. Firms are also bolstering employment rolls by tapping into retirees re-entering the workforce and attracting workers with flexible work hours. Geoscientists, petroleum engineers, and shipfitters are in especially high demand along the Gulf Coast because of a resurgence in the energy and shipbuilding sectors. Price increases are limited to a few industries. Paper prices are expected to continue to increase over the next few months.
Shipyards report increasing prices for raw materials as do some metal producers.
However, a large chemical producer and an apparel producer note falling product prices. To comment on this site, please fill out our feedback form.