RELEASE ON RECEIPT

NAPLES, FL. -- The Conveyor Equipment Manufacturers Association reported that its December 2003 Booked Orders Index was 238 up 117 points or an increase of 97% from November 2003's Index of 121 (1990=100). The December 2003 Index represents an increase of 61% from the December 2002 Index of 148.

December Booked Orders Indexes were 148 for Bulk Handling Equipment* and 263 for Unit Handling Equipment*(1990=100).

The Twelve-Month Index for Booked Orders was 140 in December. Index represents an increase of 5% from November 2003's Twelve-Month Index of 133.

The CEMA Billed Sales (shipments) Index was 157 in December up 8 points or an increase of 5% from the November Index of 149. The December 2003 Index represents a decrease of 10% from the December 2002 Index of 174.

December Billed Sales Indexes were 133 for Bulk Handling Equipment* and 134 for Unit Handling Equipment*(1990=100).

The Twelve-Month Index for Billed Sales was 166 in December. Index represents a decrease of 1% from November 2003's Twelve-Month Index of 167.