Economic growth will continue in the second half of 2003, say the nation's purchasing and supply executives in their 65th Semiannual Forecast.

The Business Survey Committee of the Institute for Supply Management show ISM members anticipate a 1.9% growth in manufacturing revenues during the second half, with non-manufacturing revenue growing at a much faster pace, 5.4%. Manufacturing industries expecting the greatest improvement over 2002 are, listed in order: Paper, Chemicals, Food, Transportation & Equipment, Wood & Wood Products; Electronic Components & Equipment, Textiles, Instruments & Photographic Equipment, and Rubber & Plastic Products.