A major manufacturer of personal computers located in South Dakota feels that further expansion in that state is stymied by a lack of workers. Many employers reportedly are giving wage increases, in the 3 percent to 6 percent range. But there are several reports of firms that have given boosts of 10 percent to even 20 percent to keep skilled manufacturing technicians or computer specialists. Reports of product price increases are less common than those of decreases. Propane for heating and crop drying is in better supply than last year, and dealers expect lower prices.
Some manufacturers report price drops for general and some specialty grades of steel.
Those who manufacture components for other firms also report continuing pressure to lower their prices and are doing so through increased productivity. To comment on this site, please fill out our feedback form.