Demag Cranes AG Business Reports

Demand for machinery depends on overall industrial activity and on the health of sectors such as agriculture, construction, manufacturing, oil and gas exploration and production, and power generation. The profitability of individual companies depends on engineering expertise and efficient production. Large companies have economies of scale in purchasing. Small companies can compete effectively by specializing. The industry is capital-intensive: average annual revenue per worker is about $315,000. Imports, which account for about 40 percent of the US machinery market, come largely from Japan (mainly engines and construction equipment); China (generally smaller items like pumps and motors); Germany; Mexico; and Canada. Many machinery manufacturers have significant foreign sales, often funneled through joint ventures with foreign partners. Exports account for about 45 percent of US machinery production. Major markets include Canada, which receives 20 percent of exported US machinery, and Mexico, which receives 10 percent.