CHICAGO - A new study titled "NAW Economic Forecast 2004," written by Pembroke Consulting and Economy.com for the National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors (NAW), predicts a favorable outlook ahead for wholesale distribution companies in the Midwest.

Among these companies in the Midwest, those in Illinois are expected to lead in revenue growth at 6.5 percent, followed closely by Wisconsin at 6.2 percent. Distributors in Indiana and Michigan will see revenues climb by 5.4 percent and Ohio's distributors will see revenues grow 5.2 percent. By comparison, wholesale distribution in the Midwest will outpace the 2004 national forecast for revenue growth by wholesale distribution companies, which is 5.6 percent. The report also predicts that wholesale distributors in Michigan and Wisconsin will lead in employment growth at 1.4 percent.

The NAW Economic Forecast 2004 is available for purchase by calling 202-872-0885 or by visiting www.nawpubs.org.

Publication date: 11/10/2003