U.S. manufacturers more upbeat

WASHINGTON, Sept. 1 (UPI) -- The National Association of Manufacturers said Wednesday the U.S. manufacturing industry has improved considerably from a year ago.

In its annual Labor Day report, the trade association said while manufacturers had been hurt by the terrorist attacks and corporate malfeasance in recent years, the situation has improved due to improved business sentiment and global economic conditions.

NAM also said that the outlook for manufacturers is good as well.

"Fundamentals point to a continued recovery in export growth, business investment, as well as solid consumer spending in the year ahead ... manufacturers will likely add 350,000 workers to employment rolls over the coming year," said NAM President Jerry Jasinowski.