Nation : Factory Use Highest Since 1979
From Times wire services
WASHINGTON —
The operating rate at U.S. factories, mines and utilities rose in December to its highest since November, 1979, the government reported today.
The Federal Reserve Board said the use of industrial capacity rose 0.1 percentage point to 84.2% last month, the highest rate since 84.3% in November, 1979. As capacity use edges toward 85%, economists fear factories will have trouble producing enough goods to meet demand, leading to shortages and price increases.
More to Read
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.