If you want an indicator that offers some insight into where the economy is headed in a few months, look at figures flowing from the wholesale sector.
Often these firms are manufacturers who will deliver to dealers – companies such as farm machinery makers – or will move their products to retailers specialized in serving a consumer base.
On this front, Saskatchewan does very well.
The latest numbers are from May and, once again, Saskatchewan led the nation both on the gain from April to May but also for the past year. Revenues in this sector rose by 44 per cent in Saskatchewan. Compare that to under 12 per cent nationally.
Machinery production was a big gainer for the month, suggesting that manufacturers in the province are getting supply chain issues sorted out and finished goods are flowing off the assembly lines. Also, inventories are growing which is another sign that they are finding their footing.
Another product line that was seeing gains was lawn and garden equipment as distributors were stocking up for the summer season.
