Manufacturing Expands at Slower Pace

Washington, DC, March 1, 2012 -- Manufacturing expanded at a slower pace in February, according to the Institute for Supply Management.

ISM said its manufacturing index declined to 52.4% last month from 54.1% in January. Economists had expected a reading of 55% for February based on improving regional results and employment data.

Readings over 50% indicate that manufacturers are generally expanding.