FOR RELEASE: October 30, 1998

(Tempe, Arizona) — On December 8, 1998, economists from across the United States will speak on the economic outlook for 1999, at the National Association of Purchasing Management's (NAPM) First Annual Economic Summit.

The program will kick off at 9:30 a.m. with the premiere release of the Non-Manufacturing NAPM Report On Business® Semiannual Forecast, as well as the release of the Manufacturing NAPM Report On Business® Semiannual Forecast.

Following the releases, leading economic experts will share key trends and information for the future.

Scheduled Distinguished Economists:

• Robert Fry, Senior Associate Economist with DuPont, will present the economic outlook for the United States
• Ed Hyman, Chairman of the ISI Group, will share his outlook for investors for 1999
• Arthur Alexander, President of the Japan Economic Institute, will speak on the Asian economy
• Roseanne Cahn, Chief Economist for Credit Suisse First Boston Corporation, will present the currency forecast. The program will conclude at 3:30 p.m.

To register, or for more information about the Economic Summit, visit NAPM's Web site. You can also call NAPM customer service at 800/888-6276 or 602/752-6276, extension 401, to register, or to request a general information brochure.

The National Association of Purchasing Management is a not-for-profit association that provides national and international leadership in purchasing and supply management research and education. The association exists to educate, develop, and advance the purchasing and supply management profession. NAPM provides members and nonmembers alike with opportunities to expand their professional knowledge and skills. NAPM is comprised of 180 affiliates with 43,000 members throughout the United States and Puerto Rico. Visit the NAPM Web site at http://www.ism.ws.