1999 Top Diemakers

On average, annual growth projections were down 26 percent to 9.7 percent this past year. Conversely, on the high end, one diemaker projected up to 40 percent annual growth—60 percent higher than the overall industry high a year ago. Somewhat balancing the economies of scale, however, were two large diemakers who indicated "flat" growth. While confidentiality precludes naming those specific diemakers, it can be noted that both were in the top 10. Four diemakers, also among the 10 largest, said they expected "negative growth" in the coming year. The more aggressive projections all came from diemakers a bit farther down the list. All in all, it should be kept in perspective that 9.7 percent average growth in any industry is still considered very healthy.