Seeing Beyond the Numbers: How MTI’s Sales Trend Reports and Economic Forecasts Help Members Thrive

In today’s unpredictable business climate, information isn’t just power — it’s profit. For manufacturers and commercial heat treaters navigating labor shortages, cost pressures, and market swings, having the right data at the right time can mean the difference between reacting and leading. That’s exactly why the Metal Treating Institute (MTI) invests heavily in two of its most valuable Member resources — the Monthly Sales Trend Report and the Quarterly Economic Forecasts by ITR Economics.

Real-Time Data That Drives Smarter Decisions

Each month, MTI Members contribute to, and receive, the Sales Trend Report, a comprehensive benchmarking tool tracking performance across multiple regions. This report enables Members to see how their sales align with overall industry performance.

When demand spikes or dips, the Sales Trend Report helps answer key questions:

• Is this a company-specific issue, or an industry-wide trend?
• Should we ramp up capacity or prepare for a slowdown?
• Are we outperforming the market, or falling behind competitors?

By benchmarking against the industry trends, Members can identify patterns early and make confident decisions about pricing, staffing, and production — all backed by reliable data rather than gut instinct.  MTI’s Sales Reporting Program is based on confidentiality, where no Member sees another Member’s sales data. Your data is password protected to your account only. Within your report you can see your sales ranking and market share in your local region and nationally. These reports are very informative to be sharing and discussing with your management team on a monthly basis. CLICK HERE to view a sample report.

Forecasting the Future with ITR Economics

MTI’s partnership with ITR Economics, one of the nation’s most respected forecasting firms, gives Members a clear picture of what lies ahead. The ITR reports deliver detailed outlooks on:

• Industrial production and manufacturing trends
• Inflation, interest rates, and capital spending cycles
• Energy costs, employment, and consumer demand

Rather than waiting for economic shifts to arrive, members can see what’s coming 12 to 24 months in advance. This allows them to plan for growth, protect cash flow, and make well-timed investments that maximize returns.

As ITR economists often remind Members, “It’s not about predicting the future — it’s about preparing for it.” With MTI’s forecasts, Members gain a roadmap to do exactly that.

Turning Insight into Strategic Advantage

The true power of these resources lies in how they work together. When companies compare their monthly sales data against ITR’s long-term forecasts, they get a complete view of where their business stands in the economic cycle. This combination empowers leaders to:

• Time expansions, equipment purchases, or pricing changes
• Align business strategy with macroeconomic momentum
• Communicate confidently with customers, lenders, and employees

For many MTI Members, these reports have become essential to boardroom discussions, annual budgeting, and long-term strategic planning.

MTI’s Commitment to Member Success

Since 1933, MTI has been more than a trade association — it’s been a strategic partner helping Members weather storms, seize opportunities, and grow stronger together. The Sales Trend Reports and Economic Forecasts are a reflection of that mission. They transform raw data into actionable intelligence, helping every Member see beyond today and prepare for tomorrow.

The Bottom Line

In an era where uncertainty is constant, MTI gives its Members the clarity to lead with confidence. With accurate benchmarking, trusted forecasting, and industry collaboration, you’re n  ever navigating the future alone — you’re charting it with data, insight, and the power of the MTI community.

If you are not participating in MTI’s Sales Reporting Program, CLICK HERE for more details and to fill out our account setup form and we will get you engaged so you can make informed decisions on the future for your company.