Industrial Heating's monthly economic indicators for December 2013 showed encouraging signs after no growth in October and November. The change in the number of request for quotes showed growth and was at its highest level (52.6) since March. The change in the number of orders (49.8) was at its highest level since August, and the change in backlog (48.9) was at its highest level since April. December marked only the third month of 2013 where all four indices were above 47. December 2013’s index numbers reflect the changes experienced by responding companies as they compare their November 2013 business levels to their October 2013 levels. December 2013’s index numbers:

• Change in number of request for quotes from Oct. to Nov.  – 52.6
• Change in number of orders from Oct. to Nov. – 49.8
• Change in backlog from Oct. to Nov. – 48.9
• Expected change in the health of the industry through Dec. – 47.4

A number above 50.0 indicates increased activity or growth. A number below 50.0 indicates decreased activity or a decline in growth. Look for these numbers, along with historical values, in January 2014’s Industrial Heating.