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.