A robust expansion in new orders helped underpin another solid improvement in operating conditions across the Canadian manufacturing sector during February. The improving demand environment and a rise in backlogs encouraged firms to add to workforces, while sustained growth in output led to another increase in purchasing activity. However, the latest survey data continued to reveal intense supply chain pressures, with delivery times lengthening markedly. Firms often mentioned that restrictions, implemented to curb the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), had often led to material shortages and ... (full story)