May 15, 2003

NAPLES, FL. -- The Conveyor Equipment Manufacturers Association reported that its March 2003 Booked Orders Index was 203 up 70 points or an increase of 34% from February 2003's Index of 133 (1990=100). The March 2003 Index represents an increase of 40% from the March 2002 Index of 122.

March Booked Orders Indexes were 107 for Bulk Handling Equipment* and 233 for Unit Handling Equipment*(1990=100).
The Twelve-Month Index for Booked Orders was 133 in March. Index represents an increase of 5% from February 2003's Twelve-Month Index of 126.

The CEMA Billed Sales (shipments) Index was 184 in March up 21 points or an increase of 11% from the February Index of 163. The March 2003 Index represents a decrease of 11% from the March 2002 Index of 204.

March Billed Sales Indexes were 108 for Bulk Handling Equipment* and 178 for Unit Handling Equipment*(1990=100).

The Twelve-Month Index for Billed Sales was 168 in March. Index represents a decrease of 1% from February 2003's Twelve-Month Index of 170.