And the survey says ...

Another sign that the economic slowdown may be slowing down is seen in consolidation, or a lack thereof. Nearly sixty percent of the shops surveyed believe that they are not vulnerable to consolidation, and another third believe they are only slightly susceptible.

Despite a majority of diemakers not fearing consolidation personally, 64 percent believe it will continue in the industry. The number one reason they cite for this is that 43 percent foresee that customers will also continue to consolidate. Another 29 percent said rising operating costs will feed integrations, and 14 percent each said either a need for better geographical coverage or overall technology costs will keep consolidation alive.