They weren't as bad as many experts predicted, but manufacturing sales did fall short in August.
Statistics Canada says manufacturing sales fell 0.2% to $52.1 billion in August following three consecutive monthly increases.
Economists had expected a drop of 1%. The decrease was due to a drop in the petroleum and coal industry as well as the auto parts and aerospace product and parts industries.
Gains were made in motor vehicle assembly and wood products. Overall, sales were down were down in eight of 21 main industries tracked, representing approximately half of the sector.
Sales declined in five provinces in August including lower results in Quebec, Alberta and New Brunswick, offset in large part by gains in Ontario.
