This document discusses the environment for manufacturing and automation in 2009 and beyond. It summarizes the current global recession and its impact on manufacturing. Recent purchasing manager indices show manufacturing contracting significantly around the world. Industrial production and capacity utilization are down. The document also discusses consolidation trends in different industries and the challenges of an aging workforce. While 2009 will be a difficult year, the document argues that continued investment in key areas like infrastructure, energy efficiency and innovation will be important to drive future growth.