Conditions for Manufacturers Best Since 2004

Washington, DC, May 3, 2010–Conditions for the nation’s manufacturers improved again in April to the highest level since June 2004, the Institute for Supply Management reported Monday.

The ISM index jumped to 60.4% in April from 59.6% in March, which was above forecasts. The consensus forecast of  was for the index to rise to 60.1%. Readings above 50 indicate expansion.

New orders were strong in April and the employment index improved again. Seventeen of 18 industries reported growth in April.