Area manufacturing index gains in month

10/20/2005

Northwest Ohio s manufacturing activity increased last month, marking a two-year stretch in which the local economic index has been in positive territory.

The factory index, compiled by Toledo s Regional Growth Partnership, was 55.5 percent for September, below the national reading of 59.4. Above 50 means there is increased activity.

While commodity prices continue to show high readings as a component of the local index, production and employment

measures were strong last month.