Hollywood, FL (Aug. 31, 2000)—The store fixture manufacturing industry in North America continues to grow revenues, but 1999 data shows the impact of wage pressures on profitability, according to the National Association of Store Fixture Manufacturers' (NASFM) newly published 2000 PROFIT Report. The 91 NASFM member companies that participated in the confidential survey reported total sales of more than $1.5 billion in 1999. The median company in the survey reported sales growth of 6.8%, compared to 9% reported in 1998

While revenues grew, profit margins declined when compared to earlier years, reflecting the impact of wage pressures on the industry. The survey recorded median profit before taxes by the participants of 3.1%, down from 4.4% in the 1999 survey. Tight labor markets caused sharp increases in both direct labor and general and administrative payroll expenses.

Revenue growth and profit before taxes are just two of the measures reported in this detailed, comprehensive financial survey of the North American store fixture manufacturing industry. The 2000 NASFM PROFIT Report includes industry averages for companies' typical income statement and balance sheet line items, cross-referenced by sales volume, product mix, and materials manufactured. NASFM member companies that participate in the report receive a free copy, while non-participating members can purchase a copy for $250; the cost for non-members is $500.

NASFM is an international, not-for-profit association representing the store fixture manufacturing industry since 1956. The association's membership includes more than 450 regular member companies operating over 800 plants and employing more than 75,000 people worldwide; an additional 200 industry suppliers are associate members. NASFM members manufacture an estimated 85% of all store fixtures produced in North America, and the 100 largest North American store fixture manufacturers are NASFM members. The typical NASFM member employs 85 people, and generates revenues in excess of $10 million per year.

Electronic file of survey cover available upon request.