The manufacturing sector in Saskatchewan came within a whisker of its first ever $2-billion month in February.
Revenues flowing from factories in Saskatchewan reached $1.997 billion, which was 10 per cent higher than January even though February has 10 per cent fewer production hours available.
That gain was not only the strongest in the country, it saw the 12-month period that ended in February hit an all-time high which was nearly 40 per cent ahead of the previous year. That too was the strongest performance in Canada as Saskatchewan factories continue to enjoy a strong run.
Inflation and higher prices are a factor in increased sales figures, but volumes were also stronger.
Further, we were not as affected by the blockades at border crossings in Alberta and Ontario, so, our production facilities were able to run without interruption.
But we, like most parts of the country, were feeling supply chain issues resulting in growing inventories as nearly finished products are awaiting a part or two for completion.
