Bolt Threads Partners With adidas, Kering, lululemon and Stella McCartney to Introduce Mylo™

EMERYVILLE, Calif. — October 2, 2020 — Bolt Threads, a biotechnology company creating the next generation of advanced materials, today announced the creation of an unprecedented consortium with iconic global companies who have secured exclusive access to its innovative material, Mylo™. Made from infinitely renewable mycelium, Mylo looks and feels like leather; brand partners will begin bringing products featuring Mylo to market in 2021. The Mylo consortium marks a major milestone in the industry, as global companies come together to invest in material innovation and creative solutions to reduce our environmental impact.

The consortium is the largest joint development agreement in consumer biomaterials to date, marrying deep science and high design.

“We are thrilled to be working with partners who recognize that we are in a race to develop sustainable solutions to conventional technologies,” said Bolt Threads CEO Dan Widmaier. “They are joining forces, and investing in a solution that can scale: Mylo. The consortium unites four iconic and forward-thinking companies — adidas, Kering, lululemon, and Stella McCartney — who collectively represent hundreds of millions of square feet of potential demand for Mylo. Most importantly, this is an ongoing commitment to develop materials and products for a more sustainable future.”

“I have always been convinced that innovation is key to addressing the sustainability challenge that Luxury is facing. Finding innovative, alternative materials and fabrics can potentially drastically reduce the environmental impact of our industry over the long term. This is why Kering is actively looking for innovations in this field and it’s why we became an early supporter of Bolt Threads. Mylo is one of the very promising solutions that we have identified,” said François-Henri Pinault, chairman & CEO, Kering.

“Many people associate leather with luxury but since the beginning I always wanted to approach things in a different way because killing animals for the sake of fashion is quite simply not acceptable. Working so closely with Bolt Threads since 2017 has been a career changing experience and I cannot wait to launch Mylo products to market in 2021,” said Stella McCartney, founder and Creative Director.

Consortium partners were drawn to Mylo because of its remarkable resemblance to soft, supple leather. Mylo can be used like animal or synthetic leather and can take on any color, finish or emboss. The first Mylo products will be available for purchase in stores and online starting in 2021.

“For too long the industry standard has categorized materials as either natural or highly functional – but not both. The way to remedy this is to innovate responsibly with solutions that challenge the status quo, and products that use the best of what nature has spent millions of years perfecting — like Mylo — are critical to that,” said James Carnes, vice president, Global Brand Strategy at adidas. “We hope this inspires others to join forces, as a more sustainable future is something that no brand can create alone.”

“At lululemon, we are committed to making products and operating our business in an innovative, sustainable way for our guests. The Mylo consortium demonstrates how leading global brands can collaborate across industries to be part of a lasting solution to restore a healthy environment. We firmly believe that innovation and sustainability are key to the future of retail,” said Sun Choe, chief product officer, lululemon.

The process of finding the right brand partners was highly selective, based on mission alignment and a demonstrated commitment to sustainability. The four selected companies appreciate that Mylo is developed from the ground up with environmental impact at the forefront. For the Mylo consortium partners, this is more than a marketing story as they are investing in science and research to make sure the material is truly better for the planet.

More on Mylo: High-Tech Science + Low Environmental Impact

Mylo is everything you love about leather without everything you (and the planet) don’t. Made from infinitely renewable mycelium — the branching underground structure of mushrooms — Mylo is created using a highly efficient grow process that is intentionally designed to be low impact — taking less than two weeks to grow, emitting fewer greenhouse gases and using less water and resources than animal leather.

Posted October 5, 2020

Source: BOLT THREADS

Ascend Announces Price Increases For Intermediate Materials

HOUSTON — October 5, 2020 — Ascend Performance Materials announced today a price increase for intermediate materials.

Customers should contact their local sales representative for additional information.

The price increase takes effect immediately and includes the following terms:

 Material  Price Increase   Terms
 Hexamethylene

Diamine (HMD)

 $350/MT As contracts allow

Non-contract business – price determined on an order-by-order basis

 Adiponitrile (ADN)  $350/MT As contracts allow

Non-contract business – price determined on an order-by-order basis

 Acrylonitrile (AN)  $200/MT As contracts allow

Non-contract business – price determined on an order-by-order basis

 Adipic Acid (AA)  $100/MT As contracts allow

Non-contract business – price determined on an order-by-order basis

Posted October 5, 2020

Source: Ascend Performance Materials

Jack Wolfskin Appoints André Grube As CFO

PARK CITY, Utah — October 5, 2020 — Jack Wolfskin, a global producer of outdoor apparel and gear, has appointed André Grube as the company’s new CFO, effective October 1, 2020. In this role, Grube will be responsible for Jack Wolfskin’s finance, tax and legal, HR and office management functions. Grube succeeds Ante Franicevic, who has decided to leave the company on October 15 to pursue new professional opportunities after a short handoff.

“I am delighted that with André Grube, we have been able to recruit an experienced financial expert from the outdoor industry,” said Jack Wolfskin CEO Melody Harris-Jensbach. “His responsibilities in particular include the completion of the full integration of Jack Wolfskin into our parent organization, Callaway Golf. We thank Mr. Franicevic for his achievements at Jack Wolfskin.”

Grube is joining Jack Wolfskin from the Switzerland-based outdoor company Mammut Sports Group. In his role as Group CFO, he was responsible for the Finance Department as well as HR, Inventory Management, Logistics and Strategic Planning since 2018.

During this time, Grube was instrumental in developing important organizational and strategic changes within the Company. He also made a significant contribution to Mammut Sports Group’s increased global success and profitability. Before joining Mammut Sports Group, he held positions in the finance departments of PepsiCo Germany GmbH, Punica Getränke GmbH and Procter & Gamble International.

In January 2019, Jack Wolfskin was acquired by Callaway Golf Co.

Posted October 5, 2020

Source: Callaway Golf

Sonovia Reports Its Masks Actively Eliminate Over 99-Percent of COVID-19

RAMAT GAN, Israel — October 3, 2020 — Sonovia Ltd. shared the encouraging results the company received from internationally accredited laboratory ATCC Testing laboratory. The SonoMask, which is protected by Sonovia’s proprietary formula, displayed a 99.34-percent effectiveness neutralizing the SARS-CoV2 virus within just 30 minutes of exposure in accordance with ISO 18184.

This result comes to light following Sonovia’s most recent trials with international companies from the auto and fashion industry. For instance, Sonovia recently received results from an experiment conducted with the Italian Automotive giant Adler. The experiment managed to prove an effective treatment for carpets and fabric while achieving a 99.999-percent efficiency rate against bacteria.

Earlier this year, the company also participated in an accelerator project of European fashion company A&C and was rewarded with a $250,000 investment from the Play and Plug venture fund. This pilot included cooperation with leading sporting brands such as Adidas, Gucci, and Chanel.

Currently, Sonovia is in the process of integrating its anti-bacterial fabric in the sports clothing line of Israeli clothing manufacturer Delta, and the company’s textiles being considered to produce bedding and uniforms in Israeli hospitals.

The company strives to provide its people with unparalleled protection in the ‘new normal,’ following the pandemic subsides. This will dramatically reduce the risk of contagion following the current crisis and ensure a safer environment in which the Coronavirus is a permanent guest.

Joshua Hershcovici, Sonovia’s CEO, said: “Following this outstanding result, the product of several months of dedicated anti-viral sonochemistry formulation, we can now assure the public that our SonoMask is working continuously, permanently, and rapidly to neutralize the spread of COVID-19. We are proud of our latest accomplishment that will help people feel safe and protect their loved ones, all the whilst remaining the most ecologically sound option upon the PPE market.”

Liat Goldhammer, chief technology officer at Sonovia, said: “We see our breakthrough technology transforming our everyday life, implemented in all textiles surrounding us: from the clothes we wear, to the textiles in our home, the textiles in our public spaces, in public transportation and of course as a protective measure in the workplaces & medical institutes in a manner that ensures safer surroundings during these unusual times.”

The Sonovia mask maintains its protective properties through more than 55 industrial wash cycles, eliminating the need to frequently replace masks or filters and making it a far greener solution than traditional disposable PPE, which due to their innate nature pollute the environment excessively. Sonovia’s patented technology is based on a process called cavitation, which involves using specialized machinery to emit sound waves that infuse proprietary chemical formulations into the woven fibers of textiles.

Posted October 5, 2020

Source: Sonovia ltd.

Monforts At Innovate Textile & Apparel (ITA) 2020

MÖNCHENGLADBACH, Germany — October 5, 2020 — During the Innovate Textile & Apparel (ITA) virtual textile machinery show which will run from October 15-30, 2020, Monforts will be emphazising its leadership position in three key fields — advanced coating, denim finishing and fabric sanforizing.

With its multi-head capability, the latest Monforts texCoat coating system provides the flexibility the market is looking for, with an unprecedented range of options and a wide range of modules available.

Refinements

“Since we acquired the coating technology that our systems are based on we have made a lot of refinements and all of them are reflected in higher coating accuracy and the resulting quality of the treated fabrics,” says Monforts Head of Technical Textiles, Jürgen Hanel. “We are the only manufacturer to offer completely integrated coating lines from a single source and the coating machine is tailored to the subsequent Monforts drying technology — with all the benefits resulting from fully integrated plc control.

“Our systems have the shortest fabric path from the coating unit into the stenter and we have all variations of coating application systems too – and all of these options are available in wider widths, with the engineering and manufacturing from a single source here in Europe.”

CYD

Denim finishing is meanwhile a field in which Monforts has an undisputed lead and it has been working closely with its many partners in the key denim manufacturing countries of Bangladesh, Brazil, China, India, Mexico Pakistan and Turkey to develop advanced solutions.

The latest of these is the CYD yarn dyeing system.

“CYD is based on the proven Econtrol® dyeing system for fabrics*,” explained Monforts Head of Denim Hans Wroblowski. “It integrates new functions and processes into the weaving preparatory processes — spinning, direct beaming, warping and assembly beaming, followed by sizing and dyeing — in order to increase quality, flexibility, economic viability and productivity. The CYD system has been developed in response to a very strong market demand.”

Pre-shrinking

Monforts has also recently delivered a significant number of its latest Monfortex sanforizing lines to customers around the world.

Sanforizing is vital to final fabric quality, pre-shrinking it by compressing prior to washing, to limit any residual or further shrinkage in a made-up finished garment to less than 1%, for perfect comfort and fit over an extended lifetime.

As with industry-leading Montex stenters, Monfortex lines benefit from the latest Qualitex 800 control system which allows all parameters to be easily automated via the 24-inch colour touchscreen, including production speed, control of all fabric feed devices, rotation spray or steaming cylinder options, the width of the stretching field and the rubber belt pressure. Up to 10,000 separate process parameter records can be generated and stored by the data manager.

“We are looking forward to being a part of ITA at a time when international travel to trade shows is being greatly restricted,” says Monforts Textile Technologist Jonas Beisel. “This year has been all about finding new solutions to unprecedented problems and such an innovative showcase is part of that. Hopefully we will be able to resume face-to-face gatherings with all of our customers and colleagues from around the world very shortly.”

Posted October 5, 2020

Source: A. Monforts Textilmaschinen GmbH & Co. KG

ADM And Spiber To Partner On Production Of Innovative Biobased Polymers

CHICAGO/TSURUOKA, Japan — October 5, 2020 — ADM and Spiber Inc. (Spiber) today announced an agreement to expand the production of Spiber’s innovative Brewed Protein™ polymers for use in apparel and other consumer products. The collaboration will combine Spiber’s cutting-edge structural protein fermentation technology with ADM’s deep expertise in large-scale fermentation technologies, engineering, operations and extensive agricultural supply chain.

The Brewed Protein polymers will be produced by ADM in the U.S. using plant-based dextrose as a feedstock, and then shipped to Spiber downstream facilities, where they will be processed into an array of materials — primarily fibers — for use in a variety of applications such as apparel, lightweight auto parts, high-performance foams, and more. Brewed Protein polymers will play a critical role in expanding the range of plant-based, sustainable alternative materials.

“Consumers are increasingly demanding sustainable innovation in the products they purchase, and we’re excited to partner with Spiber to help bring this leading-edge technology to market,” said Ian Pinner, ADM’s chief strategy and innovation officer and president of the company’s Health & Wellness division.

“From our partnerships with farmers and our efficient origination network, to our ability to provide sustainably sourced feedstocks from nature, to our expertise in fermentation and ability to scale technology to commercial production, our end-to-end capabilities give us a substantial leadership position in this fast-growing market,” Pinner continued. “Across ADM, we are creating value for customers and shareholders alike by finding innovative, exciting ways to use our array of plant-based products. From alternative proteins to substitutes for petroleum-based plastics, we’re excited to lead in the creation of whole new generations of in-demand, sustainable products.”

“After more than a year of working closely with ADM, we are pleased to take our partnership to the next level and expand Spiber’s production to the U.S.,” said Kazuhide Sekiyama, Spiber’s cofounder, director, and representative executive officer. “ADM has an amazing team, providing significant value for our business not only through its fermentation expertise, but also as a provider of quality, corn-based raw materials used in our process.

“This collaboration takes us to a new phase in the commercialization of Spiber’s materials — one in which Brewed Protein will be more widely available and at costs suitable for broader markets,” Sekiyama continued. “Proteins represent the pinnacle material platform evolved and adopted by life on earth to ensure survival. Spiber remains committed to blazing a trail in providing such material alternatives for industry and playing a role in the transition to a more sustainable society. We are excited to be taking the next important steps in that process together with ADM.”

In 2019, the two companies began a long-term collaboration, in which ADM provided technical, engineering and process support, along with access to production resources, to help develop and test Spiber’s process at scale. Following the successful completion of that work, the second phase announced today extends the partnership between the two companies, creating a pathway toward commercial-scale production in the coming years.

Posted October 5, 2020

Source: ADM/Spiber Inc.

NCTO Welcomes Administration’s Section 301 Investigation Into Vietnam’s Currency Practices

WASHINGTON  — October 5, 2020 — The National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO), representing the full spectrum of U.S. textiles, from fiber through finished sewn products, welcomes the Trump administration’s recent announcement of the launch of a Section 301 investigation into the currency valuation practices of Vietnam.

“NCTO strongly opposes foreign governments undervaluing their currencies, which puts U.S. manufacturers at a disadvantage by inflating the cost of U.S. exports and deflating the cost of U.S. imports. This unfair trade practice displaces U.S. production and jobs, as well as those of our Western Hemisphere trade partners utilizing U.S. textile inputs,” said NCTO President and CEO Kim Glas.

“The U.S.-Vietnam trading relationship suffers from many of the same problems that we have experienced with China. There are strong indications of a purposefully undervalued currency that warrants a full investigation. Further, the industries in the two countries are inextricably linked, as Vietnam sources much of its textile inputs from China,” Glas added.

In 2019, the U.S. trade deficit with Vietnam stood at $55.8 billion, including a $14.6 billion deficit in textiles and apparel specifically. Vietnam has demonstrated tremendous growth in the U.S. textile and apparel market and is the second largest supplier after China, holding a 15.8% import market share for January-July 2020.

“Scrutinizing unfair practices such as currency undervaluation by Vietnam is one more action the administration can take to eliminate predatory trade practices by countries that continuously undermine domestic production and that of our free trade partners. Strong trade enforcement is key to leveling the playing field.

With so much discussion about onshoring production, including personal protective equipment (PPE), we believe this investigation is necessary, and we look forward to further opportunities to provide input as part of the formal investigation process.”

Posted October 5, 2020

Source: The National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO)

Suominen Launches BIOLACE® Combo — An Sustainable Solution For Absorbent Hygiene Articles

HELSINKI — October 1, 2020 — Suominen has introduced a new nonwoven BIOLACE® Combo. Based on a 2-in-1 concept, it combines all the features of a top sheet and an acquisition and distribution layer (ADL) into one nonwoven. Biolace Combo is designed for use in absorbent hygiene products, such as feminine hygiene liners and pads, and can be used directly on top of the absorbent core or as the only nonwoven of an ultrathin liner.

“Biolace Combo can significantly improve the final product properties and offer consistent performance in addition to eliminating the need for multiple layers. Key features include excellent fluid management, quick intake while delivering advanced dryness and textile-like softness for excellent comfort. All this makes Biolace Combo an ideal candidate for ultrathin product design,” said Johanna Sirén, category manager at Suominen. “We are so happy to finally launch this concept showcasing again our Technology department’s know-how in the world of hygiene.”

As a product in Suominen’s sustainable Biolace product family, Biolace Combo is made from only renewable plant-based raw materials and is both biodegradable and compostable. Compared to the traditional fossil-based nonwovens used in hygiene articles, Biolace Combo is able to provide a clear advantage in terms of lowering the CO2 footprint. Replacing two separate layers with one nonwoven also brings simplicity into the production.

“Biolace Combo is one of our innovations that clearly demonstrate our strategic ambition to continuously develop new products that meet consumers’ growing demand for sustainable products — without forgetting the need for confident performance,” Sirén concluded.

Posted October 2, 2020

Source: Suominen Corp.

Ascend Performance Materials Announces Global Price Increase For All Vydyne® Brand Polymers, Fibers And Compounds

HOUSTON — October 1, 2020 — Ascend Performance Materials announced today a global price increase for all of its Vydyne® polymers, fibers and compounds.

The price increase takes effect October 15, 2020, and includes the following price changes:

Materials Geography Price Increases Terms
Vydyne® (PA 66) polymers, fibers and compounds North America $220/MT As contracts allow

Non-contract business – price determined on an order-by-order basis

Vydyne® (PA 66) polymers, fibers and compounds Asia $300/MT As contracts allow

Non-contract business – price determined on an order-by-order basis

Vydyne® (PA 66) polymers, fibers and compounds Europe €200/MT As contracts allow

Non-contract business – price determined on an order-by-order basis

Customers should contact their local sales representative for additional information.

Posted October 2, 2020

Source: Ascend Performance Materials

PMI® At 55.4 Percent September 2020 Manufacturing ISM® Report On Business®: Textile Mills Report Growth, Apparel, Leather & Allied Products Report Contraction

TEMPE, Ariz. — October 1, 2020 — Economic activity in the manufacturing sector grew in September, with the overall economy notching a fifth consecutive month of growth, say the nation’s supply executives in the latest Manufacturing ISM® Report On Business®.

The report was issued today by Timothy R. Fiore, CPSM, C.P.M., chair of the Institute for Supply Management® (ISM®) Manufacturing Business Survey Committee: “The September PMI® registered 55.4 percent, down 0.6 percentage point from the August reading of 56 percent. This figure indicates expansion in the overall economy for the fifth month in a row after a contraction in April, which ended a period of 131 consecutive months of growth. The New Orders Index registered 60.2 percent, a decrease of 7.4 percentage points from the August reading of 67.6 percent. The Production Index registered 61 percent, down 2.3 percentage points compared to the August reading of 63.3 percent. The Backlog of Orders Index registered 55.2 percent, 0.6 percentage point higher compared to the August reading of 54.6 percent. The Employment Index registered 49.6 percent, an increase of 3.2 percentage points from the August reading of 46.4 percent. The Supplier Deliveries Index registered 59 percent, up 0.8 percentage point from the August figure of 58.2 percent.

“The Inventories Index registered 47.1 percent, 2.7 percentage points higher than the August reading of 44.4 percent. The Prices Index registered 62.8 percent, up 3.3 percentage points compared to the August reading of 59.5 percent. The New Export Orders Index registered 54.3 percent, an increase of 1 percentage point compared to the August reading of 53.3 percent. The Imports Index registered 54 percent, a 1.6-percentage point decrease from the August reading of 55.6 percent.

“After the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic brought manufacturing activity to historic lows, the sector continued its recovery in September. Survey Committee members reported that their companies and suppliers continue to operate in reconfigured factories and are becoming more proficient at maintaining output. Panel sentiment was optimistic (2.3 positive comments for every cautious comment), an improvement compared to August. Demand expanded, with the (1) New Orders Index growing at strong levels, supported by the New Export Orders Index expanding moderately, (2) Customers’ Inventories Index at its lowest figure since June 2010, a level considered a positive for future production, and the (3) Backlog of Orders Index expanding at a faster rate compared to the prior two months. Consumption (measured by the Production and Employment indexes) contributed positively (a combined 0.9-percentage point increase) to the PMI® calculation, with five of the top six industries continuing to expand output strongly. Employment neared expansion territory for the first time since July 2019. Inputs — expressed as supplier deliveries, inventories and imports — continued to indicate input-driven constraints to further production expansion, but at slower rates compared to August. Inventory levels contracted again due to strong production output and supplier delivery difficulties. Overall, inputs improved compared to August and contributed positively to the PMI® calculation. (The Supplier Deliveries and Inventories indexes directly factor into the PMI®; the Imports Index does not.) Prices continued to expand at higher rates, reflecting a continued shift to seller pricing power — a positive for new-order growth.

“Among the six biggest manufacturing industries, Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products remains the best-performing sector, with Fabricated Metal Products and Chemical Products growing strongly. Computer & Electronic Products and Transportation Equipment expanded moderately. Petroleum & Coal Products remained a headwind to PMI performance.

“Manufacturing performed well in the month with demand, consumption and inputs registering growth indicative of a normal expansion cycle. While certain industry sectors are experiencing difficulties that will continue in the near term, the manufacturing community as a whole has learned to conduct business effectively and deal with the variables imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic,” Fiore said.

Of the 18 manufacturing industries, 14 reported growth in September, in the following order: Paper Products; Wood Products; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Furniture & Related Products; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Fabricated Metal Products; Chemical Products; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; Plastics & Rubber Products; Machinery; Textile Mills; Computer & Electronic Products; and Transportation Equipment. The four industries reporting contraction in September are: Apparel, Leather & Allied Products; Printing & Related Support Activities; Petroleum & Coal Products; and Primary Metals.

What Respondents Are Saying

“Still struggling with long lead times for components coming from China [contract manufacturers].” — Computer & Electronic Products

“Volume remains lower than one year ago but has steadily improved over the past two periods.” — Chemical Products

“Business is booming, and the supply chain has been caught off guard. We are working closely with our suppliers to ensure supply and try to control costs. The resin industry, along with plastics, is driving cost increases and scarce availability.” — Transportation Equipment

“Our business has not begun to recover.” — Petroleum & Coal Products

“Overall business conditions are improving, but not at the rates we saw them decline.” — Fabricated Metal Products

“Our customer order intake is increasing significantly for deliveries in the first half of 2021. Outlook is generally positive.” — Machinery

“Retail sales remain strong, but food service is still down about 15 percent year-over-year. All of our factories are still struggling with manning shifts due to positive COVID-19 cases and/or quarantine because employees came in contact with someone who contracted the virus.” — Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products

“Demand remains high, strong finish to 2020 projected, with an even stronger 2021 fiscal year. Prices have increased in certain categories, but no major price increases of our own have been implemented yet. We are seeing an uptick in reshoring opportunities in the third quarter across various industries and products.” — Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components

“We are seeing a marked increase in international demand in Q4 compared to Q2 and Q3. Still not at historical levels; however, a positive outlook.” — Paper Products

“Raw material shortages, especially of hardwood logs, are starting to impact overall supply. Domestic market demand is fragmented but remains sound. Export demand, especially to China, is robust.” — Wood Products

“Business has continued to be strong, with September following August. October is also shaping up to be a good sales month as well.” — Plastics & Rubber Products

MANUFACTURING AT A GLANCE

September 2020

Index Series Index

Sep

Series Index

Aug

Percentage

Point

Change

Direction Rate of Change Trend* (Months)
Manufacturing PMI® 55.4 56.0 -0.6 Growing Slower 4
New Orders 60.2 67.6 -7.4 Growing Slower 4
Production 61.0 63.3 -2.3 Growing Slower 4
Employment 49.6 46.4 +3.2 Contracting Slower 14
Supplier Deliveries 59.0 58.2 +0.8 Slowing Faster 11
Inventories 47.1 44.4 +2.7 Contracting Slower 3
Customers’ Inventories 37.9 38.1 -0.2 Too Low Faster 48
Prices 62.8 59.5 +3.3 Increasing Faster 4
Backlog of Orders 55.2 54.6 +0.6 Growing Faster 3
New Export Orders 54.3 53.3 +1.0 Growing Faster 3
Imports 54.0 55.6 -1.6 Growing Slower 3
OVERALL ECONOMY Growing Slower 5
Manufacturing Sector Growing Slower 4

 

Manufacturing ISM® Report On Business® data is seasonally adjusted for the New Orders, Production, Employment and Inventories indexes.

*Number of months moving in current direction.

Commodities Reported Up/Down In Price And In Short Supply

Commodities Up in Price
: Aluminum (4); Aluminum Extrusions; Copper (4); Freight (2); High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) (3); Lumber (3); Natural Gas (2); Polypropylene (3); Polyvinyl Chloride; Precious Metals (3); Propylene (2); Resins; Sanitizers; Steel (2); Steel — Cold Rolled; Steel — Hot Rolled; Steel — Scrap (2); and Steel Products.

Commodities Down in Price
: Oil.

Commodities in Short Supply:
Aluminum; Cable Assemblies; Capacitors; Lumber (2); Personal Protective Equipment (PPE); PPE — Gloves (7); PPE — Masks; Polypropylene; Resins; Resistors; and Sanitizers.

Note: The number of consecutive months the commodity is listed is indicated after each item.

September 2020 Manufacturing Index Summaries

PMI®

Manufacturing grew in September, as the PMI registered 55.4 percent, 0.6 percentage point lower than the August reading of 56 percent. “The PMI signaled a continued rebuilding of economic activity in September, with all subindexes either remaining in moderate to strong growth territory or slowing their rate of contraction (Employment and Inventories). Five of the big six industry sectors continue to expand. The New Orders and Production indexes continued at strong expansion levels. The Supplier Deliveries Index continues to reflect supplier difficulties in maintaining delivery rates due to factory labor safety issues and transportation challenges. Eight of the 10 subindexes were positive for the period. A reading of ‘too low’ for Customers’ Inventories is considered a positive for future production,” Fiore said. A reading above 50 percent indicates that the manufacturing economy is generally expanding; below 50 percent indicates that it is generally contracting.

A PMI above 42.8 percent, over a period of time, generally indicates an expansion of the overall economy. Therefore, the September PMI indicates the overall economy grew in September for the fifth consecutive month following contraction in April. “The past relationship between the PMI and the overall economy indicates that the PMI for September (55.4 percent) corresponds to a 3.7-percent increase in real gross domestic product (GDP) on an annualized basis,” Fiore said.

The Last 12 Months

Month PMI® Month PMI®
Sep 2020 55.4 Mar 2020 49.1
Aug 2020 56.0 Feb 2020 50.1
Jul 2020 54.2 Jan 2020 50.9
Jun 2020 52.6 Dec 2019 47.8
May 2020 43.1 Nov 2019 48.1
Apr 2020 41.5 Oct 2019 48.5
Average for 12 months – 49.8

High – 56.0

Low – 41.5

 

New Orders

ISM’s New Orders Index registered 60.2 percent in September, a decrease of 7.4 percentage points compared to the 67.6 percent reported in August. This indicates that new orders grew for the fourth consecutive month. “Four of the top six industry sectors (Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Fabricated Metal Products; Chemical Products; and Transportation Equipment) expanded,” Fiore said. A New Orders Index above 52.5 percent, over time, is generally consistent with an increase in the Census Bureau’s series on manufacturing orders (in constant 2000 dollars).

Of the 18 manufacturing industries, the 12 that reported growth in new orders in September — in the following order — are: Wood Products; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Plastics & Rubber Products; Furniture & Related Products; Paper Products; Printing & Related Support Activities; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Fabricated Metal Products; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Machinery; Chemical Products; and Transportation Equipment. The three industries reporting a decline in new orders in September are: Apparel, Leather & Allied Products; Textile Mills; and Miscellaneous Manufacturing.

New Orders %Higher %Same %Lower Net Index
Sep 2020 35.2 45.9 18.9 +16.3 60.2
Aug 2020 39.7 47.4 12.9 +26.8 67.6
Jul 2020 41.1 40.0 18.8 +22.3 61.5
Jun 2020 37.3 38.9 23.9 +13.4 56.4

Production

The Production Index registered 61 percent in September, 2.3 percentage points lower than the August reading of 63.3 percent, indicating growth for the fourth consecutive month. “Five of the top six industries (Chemical Products; Fabricated Metal Products; Transportation Equipment; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; and Computer & Electronic Products) expanded strongly,” says Fiore. An index above 51.7 percent, over time, is generally consistent with an increase in the Federal Reserve Board’s Industrial Production figures.

The 14 industries reporting growth in production during the month of September — listed in order — are: Wood Products; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Furniture & Related Products; Paper Products; Machinery; Chemical Products; Fabricated Metal Products; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Transportation Equipment; Primary Metals; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Computer & Electronic Products; Plastics & Rubber Products; and Miscellaneous Manufacturing. The three industries reporting decreased production in September are: Apparel, Leather & Allied Products; Textile Mills; and Petroleum & Coal Products.

Production %Higher %Same %Lower Net Index
Sep 2020 34.3 50.9 14.8 +19.5 61.0
Aug 2020 38.3 48.6 13.2 +25.1 63.3
Jul 2020 41.6 39.9 18.5 +23.1 62.1
Jun 2020 39.2 37.7 23.1 +16.1 57.3

 

Employment

ISM’s Employment Index registered 49.6 percent in September, 3.2 percentage points higher than the August reading of 46.4 percent. “This is the 14th consecutive month of employment contraction, at a slower rate compared to August. This marks the fifth consecutive month of improvement since the index’s low of 27.5 percent registered in April. Four of the six big industry sectors, (Computer & Electronic Products; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Chemical Products; and Transportation Equipment)  experienced expansion. Slowing inventories contraction typically indicates a need for more labor to maintain production output. Long-term labor market growth remains uncertain, but strong new-order levels and an expanding backlog signify potential employment strength for the fourth quarter. Survey panelists’ comments indicate that there are significantly more companies hiring or attempting to hire than those that are reducing labor forces,” says Fiore. An Employment Index above 50.8 percent, over time, is generally consistent with an increase in the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data on manufacturing employment.

Of the 18 manufacturing industries, the eight industries to report employment growth in September — in the following order — are: Textile Mills; Furniture & Related Products; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; Computer & Electronic Products; Paper Products; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Chemical Products; and Transportation Equipment. The eight industries reporting a decrease in employment in September, in the following order, are: Printing & Related Support Activities; Petroleum & Coal Products; Apparel, Leather & Allied Products; Primary Metals; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Plastics & Rubber Products; Machinery; and Fabricated Metal Products.

Employment %Higher %Same %Lower Net Index
Sep 2020 19.4 58.9 21.7 -2.3 49.6
Aug 2020 17.1 59.3 23.6 -6.5 46.4
Jul 2020 15.3 59.9 24.7 -9.4 44.3
Jun 2020 14.6 58.8 26.6 -12.0 42.1

 

Supplier Deliveries†

The delivery performance of suppliers to manufacturing organizations was slower in September, as the Supplier Deliveries Index registered 59 percent. This is 0.8 percentage point higher than the 58.2 percent reported in August. “Suppliers continue to struggle to deliver, with deliveries slowing at a faster rate compared to August. Transportation challenges and continuing difficulties in supplier labor markets are still constraints to production growth. The Supplier Deliveries Index reflects the difficulties suppliers continue to experience due to COVID-19 impacts. These issues are not expected to diminish soon and, at this time, represent a continuing hurdle to production output and inventories growth,” Fiore said. A reading below 50 percent indicates faster deliveries, while a reading above 50 percent indicates slower deliveries.

Sixteen of 18 industries reported slower supplier deliveries in September, listed in the following order: Paper Products; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Textile Mills; Fabricated Metal Products; Printing & Related Support Activities; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Plastics & Rubber Products; Wood Products; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; Machinery; Computer & Electronic Products; Chemical Products; Furniture & Related Products; Primary Metals; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; and Transportation Equipment. The only industry reporting faster supplier deliveries in September is Petroleum & Coal Products.

Supplier Deliveries  

%Slower

 

%Same

 

%Faster

 

Net

 

Index

Sep 2020 24.0 70.0 6.1 +17.9 59.0
Aug 2020 23.4 69.6 7.1 +16.3 58.2
Jul 2020 22.2 67.4 10.5 +11.7 55.8
Jun 2020 22.9 68.1 9.0 +13.9 56.9

 

Inventories

The Inventories Index registered 47.1 percent in September, 2.7 percentage points higher than the 44.4 percent reported for August. Inventories contracted for the third straight month, but at a slower rate. “Inventory levels remained in contraction due to continued strength in production and ongoing supplier difficulties,” Fiore said. An Inventories Index greater than 44.3 percent, over time, is generally consistent with expansion in the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) figures on overall manufacturing inventories (in chained 2000 dollars).

The four industries reporting higher inventories in September are: Apparel, Leather & Allied Products; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; and Paper Products. The 12 industries reporting a decrease in inventories in September — listed in order — are: Printing & Related Support Activities; Primary Metals; Wood Products; Plastics & Rubber Products; Fabricated Metal Products; Machinery; Furniture & Related Products; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Transportation Equipment; Chemical Products; and Computer & Electronic Products.

Inventories %Higher %Same %Lower Net Index
Sep 2020 16.9 61.6 21.5 -4.6 47.1
Aug 2020 13.3 65.2 21.5 -8.2 44.4
Jul 2020 21.2 51.6 27.2 -6.0 47.0
Jun 2020 22.9 54.1 23.0 -0.1 50.5

 

Customers’ Inventories†

ISM’s Customers’ Inventories Index registered 37.9 percent in September, 0.2 percentage point lower than the 38.1 percent reported for August, indicating that customers’ inventory levels were considered too low. “Customers’ inventories are too low for the 48th consecutive month and moved further into ‘too low’ territory in September, a positive for future production growth. It’s been more than a decade (a reading of 35.8 percent in June 2010) since the Customers’ Inventories index has been at this level,” Fiore said.

Of the 18 industries, the two reporting higher customers’ inventories in September are: Apparel, Leather & Allied Products; and Printing & Related Support Activities. The 15 industries reporting customers’ inventories as too low during September — listed in order — are: Wood Products; Primary Metals; Fabricated Metal Products; Paper Products; Furniture & Related Products; Machinery; Plastics & Rubber Products; Textile Mills; Chemical Products; Transportation Equipment; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Computer & Electronic Products; and Miscellaneous Manufacturing.

Customers’

Inventories

% Reporting %Too High %About Right %Too Low  

Net

 

Index

Sep 2020 76 10.2 55.4 34.5 -24.3 37.9
Aug 2020 75 7.5 61.0 31.4 -23.9 38.1
Jul 2020 74 12.6 58.0 29.4 -16.8 41.6
Jun 2020 74 15.4 58.4 26.1 -10.7 44.6

 

Prices†

The ISM® Prices Index registered 62.8 percent, an increase of 3.3 percentage points compared the August reading of 59.5 percent, indicating raw materials prices increased for the fourth consecutive month. “Price increases were driven primarily by plastics, lumber, aluminum, copper, steel products, transportation expenses and precious metals. Price growth continues to reflect a power shift toward sellers, as increased costs to produce input materials continue to be passed on to panelists’ companies,” Fiore said. A Prices Index above 52.5 percent, over time, is generally consistent with an increase in the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Producer Price Index for Intermediate Materials.

The 15 industries reporting paying increased prices for raw materials in September — listed in order — are: Wood Products; Textile Mills; Furniture & Related Products; Plastics & Rubber Products; Fabricated Metal Products; Machinery; Primary Metals; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; Printing & Related Support Activities; Computer & Electronic Products; Chemical Products; Transportation Equipment; Paper Products; and Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products. The two industries reporting decreased prices in September are: Petroleum & Coal Products; and Nonmetallic Mineral Products.

Prices %Higher %Same %Lower Net Index
Sep 2020 32.3 60.9 6.8 +25.5 62.8
Aug 2020 27.4 64.3 8.3 +19.1 59.5
Jul 2020 22.7 61.2 16.2 +6.5 53.2
Jun 2020 18.5 65.6 15.9 +2.6 51.3

 

Backlog of Orders†


ISM’s Backlog of Orders Index registered 55.2 percent in September, a 0.6-percentage point increase compared to the 54.6 percent reported in August, indicating order backlogs expanded for the third consecutive month after four straight months of contraction. “Backlogs expanded at faster rates in September, indicating that new-order intakes were sufficient to fully offset production outputs. Four of the six big industry sectors’ backlogs expanded (Fabricated Metal Products; Chemical Products; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; and Transportation Equipment). The index achieved its highest level of expansion since November 2018 (56.4 percent),” Fiore said.

The 10 industries reporting growth in order backlogs in September, in the following order, are: Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Wood Products; Plastics & Rubber Products; Fabricated Metal Products; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; Chemical Products; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Transportation Equipment; Furniture & Related Products; and Machinery. In September, four industries reported lower backlogs: Apparel, Leather & Allied Products; Textile Mills; Computer & Electronic Products; and Primary Metals.

Backlog of 
Orders %

Reporting

%Higher %Same %Lower Net Index
Sep 2020 87 26.1 58.3 15.7 +10.4 55.2
Aug 2020 89 29.0 51.3 19.7 +9.3 54.6
Jul 2020 87 20.3 63.0 16.7 +3.6 51.8
Jun 2020 89 19.4 51.9 28.7 -9.3 45.3

 

New Export Orders†


ISM’s New Export Orders Index registered 54.3 percent in September, up 1 percentage point compared to the August reading of 53.3 percent. “The New Export Orders Index grew for the third consecutive month at a faster rate and reached its highest level since September 2018 (56 percent). With five of the six big industry sectors expanding, (Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Transportation Equipment; Fabricated Metal Products; Computer & Electronic Products; and Chemical Products), new export orders were a positive factor to the growth in new orders,” Fiore said.

The 10 industries reporting growth in new export orders in September — in the following order — are: Furniture & Related Products; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Paper Products; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Transportation Equipment; Fabricated Metal Products; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; Computer & Electronic Products; and Chemical Products. The only industry reporting a decrease in new export orders in September is Machinery. Six industries reported no change in new export orders in September compared to August.

New Export

Orders

%

Reporting

 

%Higher

 

%Same

 

%Lower

 

Net

 

Index

Sep 2020 72 19.7 69.2 11.1 +8.6 54.3
Aug 2020 75 18.4 69.6 11.9 +6.5 53.3
Jul 2020 74 14.8 71.4 13.9 +0.9 50.4
Jun 2020 75 13.8 67.7 18.5 -4.7 47.6

 

Imports†

ISM’s Imports Index registered 54 percent in September, down 1.6 percentage points compared to the 55.6 percent reported for August. “Imports expanded for the third consecutive month, reflecting continued increases in U.S. factory demand,” Fiore said.

The 10 industries reporting growth in imports in September — in the following order — are: Wood Products; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Paper Products; Transportation Equipment; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Furniture & Related Products; Machinery; Computer & Electronic Products; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; and Chemical Products. The four industries reporting decreases in imports in September are: Apparel, Leather & Allied Products; Primary Metals; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; and Fabricated Metal Products.

Imports %

Reporting

 

%Higher

 

%Same

 

%Lower

 

Net

 

Index

Sep 2020 86 17.1 73.9 9.0 +8.1 54.0
Aug 2020 87 18.2 74.9 6.9 +11.3 55.6
Jul 2020 85 17.4 71.4 11.2 +6.2 53.1
Jun 2020 83 15.3 67.1 17.6 -2.3 48.8

 

†The Supplier Deliveries, Customers’ Inventories, Prices, Backlog of Orders, New Export Orders and Imports indexes do not meet the accepted criteria for seasonal adjustments.

Buying Policy

Average commitment lead time for Capital Expenditures decreased September by one day to 135 days. Average lead time for Production Materials decreased in September by two days to 64 days. Average lead time for Maintenance, Repair and Operating (MRO) Supplies decreased in September by five days to 35 days.

Percent Reporting
Capital

Expenditures

Hand-to-

Mouth

30 Days 60 Days 90 Days 6 Months 1 Year+ Average

Days

Sep 2020 25 6 9 15 27 18 135
Aug 2020 25 6 9 16 25 19 136
Jul 2020 24 7 8 18 24 19 136
Jun 2020 25 7 9 17 24 18 132
Percent Reporting
Production

Materials

Hand-to-

Mouth

30 Days 60 Days 90 Days 6 Months 1 Year+ Average

Days

Sep 2020 10 36 27 18 7 2 64
Aug 2020 10 33 26 22 7 2 66
Jul 2020 10 35 25 20 8 2 66
Jun 2020 11 37 25 18 7 2 63
Percent Reporting
MRO Supplies Hand-to-

Mouth

30 Days 60 Days 90 Days 6 Months 1 Year+ Average

Days

Sep 2020 35 39 15 8 3 0 35
Aug 2020 36 35 15 9 4 1 40
Jul 2020 38 35 16 8 3 0 35
Jun 2020 38 37 15 7 2 1 36

 

Posted October 2, 2020

Source: Institute for Supply Management® (ISM®)

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