INDA Announces The 2021 RISE® Innovation Award Finalists: Innovations In Protection, Efficiency And Engineered Fabrics

CARY, N.C. — September 7, 2021 — INDA, the Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, announced the three finalists for the prestigious RISE® Innovation Award during the 11th edition of the Research, Innovation & Science for Engineered Fabrics Conference, (RISE®) to be held virtually September 28-30, 2021. The award recognizes novel innovations in the nonwovens industry that creatively use next-level science and engineering principles to solve material challenges and expand the usage of nonwovens and engineered fabrics. These three finalists will present their innovative material science solutions as they compete for the RISE Innovation Award.

Meet your Finalists for the 2021 RISE Innovation Award:

Canopy Respirator

Canopy is an innovative respirator that is fully mechanical, non-electrostatic, with a filter designed for superior breathability while offering the wearer facial transparency. The breakthrough respirator features 5.5mm water column resistance at 85 liters (3 cubic feet) per minute, 2-way filtration, and a pleated filter that contains over 500 square centimeters of surface area. The patented Canopy respirator resists fluids, and eliminates fogging of eyeglasses.

Evalith® 1000 Series

Johns Manville’s innovative Alpha Binder is a formaldehyde-free, high bio-carbon content, toxic-free binder formulation ideal for carpet mat applications. Alpha Binder eliminates monomer and polymer synthesis, uses a bio-degradable catalyst, and requires 70-percent less water in manufacturing. The resulting glass mats made of Alpha Binder are named “Evalith 1000” and reduces energy consumption during manufacturing by over 70-percent compared to alternative petroleum-based binders. Evalith 1000 was commercialized in North America in 2020.

Fiber Coated, Heat Sealable, Breathable, Hybrid Membrane, Fabric Protection

TiGUARD protective fabric is a construction of monolithic or hybrid imperious/moisture eliminating membranes with a surface covered with micro-fiber. This nonwoven product is a multi-layer all polyester fabric specifically for chemical and microbial protective fabrics, products, and garments. It is constructed of compatible heat seal-able materials which lend themselves to high-speed heat seal-able production and ultimately automated manufacture of garments without sewing. It is a combination of a densely flocked polyester fiber surface on polyester membrane supported by polyester scrim.

Virtual RISE conference attendees include technology scouts and product developers in the nonwoven/engineered fabrics industry seeking new developments to advance their businesses. These attendees will electronically vote for the recipient of the 2021 RISE Innovation Award, on Wednesday, September 29. The winner will be announced Thursday, September 30.

Industry experts on INDA’s Technical Advisory Board selected three finalists from among 20 nominations. The 22-member board of technical professionals is represented by companies such as Absorbent Hygiene Insights LLC, Attindas Hygiene Partners, Berry Global, Cotton Incorporated, Crown Abbey, LLC, The DAK Group, Fi-Tech, Inc. Freudenberg Performance Materials, Jacob Holm, Lenzing Fibers, Inc., Natureworks LLC, Nice-Pak Products, Inc., Nonwovens by Design, Norafin (Americas) Inc., North Carolina State University, Poccia Consulting, LLC, The Procter & Gamble Company, RKW North America, Inc., Rockline Industries, Smith, Johnson & Associates, Suominen, and Texas Tech University.

In 2020, the RISE® Innovation Award was presented to The Nonwovens Institute for their Spunbond High Efficiency Filter.

“Our Virtual RISE Conference promotes and rewards innovation across all nonwoven and engineered material sectors. These finalists demonstrate new technology approaches and concepts that resolve our increasing material science challenges. For technology scouts and product developers challenged to find ‘what’s next and what’s new,’ RISE is a must-attend event,” said Dave Rousse, INDA’s president.

The conference program will cover timely and relevant industry topics including: Material Science Developments for Sustainable Nonwovens; Increasing Circularity in Nonwovens; Market Intelligence & Economic Insights; Promising Innovations in Nonwovens; Process Innovations in Nonwovens; Material Innovations in Nonwovens; the full program can be viewed on the link: https://www.riseconf.net/conference.php

Posted September 7, 2021

Source: INDA, The Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry

Eastman And Milliken & Company Join Accelerating Circularity Steering Committee

CAMPBELL HALL, N.Y. — September 7, 2021 — Accelerating Circularity Inc. today announced the addition of two new U.S. Steering Committee members, Eastman and Milliken & Company.

The Steering Committee provides strategy and guidance to the U.S.-based project.  Current members include Gap Inc, Giotex, Gr3n, Lenzing, Nike, Target, VF Corp., and Unifi. The new members, who have both made investments in and commitments to the transition to circular, textile-to-textile supply systems, will support a wider range of chemical recycling options and textile manufacturing capabilities as the project moves into the trial phase.

Eastman’s General Manager for Textiles, Jon Woods, said of the decision to join: “With Eastman Naia™ Renew cellulosic fiber, we are committed to making sustainable textiles accessible to all. We are thrilled to join Accelerating Circularity and see this collaboration as key to shaping and scaling up the recycling infrastructure needed to achieve a circular textiles industry.”

According to Chad McAllister, president, Textile Division and executive vice president, Milliken & Company: “We have invested in the ability to explore innovative materials through our Rapid Prototype Center. It’s perfect for validating new circular feedstocks to scale into commercial production. Joining Accelerating Circularity allows us to collaborate with a wide range of industry stakeholders with similar goals.”

Potential circular system trial feedstocks, fibers, technologies, and finished goods have been identified through extensive consultation with collectors, sorters, preprocessors, recyclers, yarn spinners, fabric mills and brands and retailers. Collection, sorting, and preprocessing of targeted trial feedstocks will begin September 1, 2021.

Posted September 7, 2021

Source: Accelerating Circularity

Kelheim Fibres To Increase Viscose Fibre Prices From October 1, 2021

KELHEIM, Germany — September 7, 2021 — The year 2021 has brought extraordinary challenges for society and for industry. Alongside the Covid-19 pandemic, recovering demand, disruption in the global freight systems and dramatically increased energy costs due to reduced supply and emissions trading schemes and their consequences are driving significant cost increases for raw materials and negatively influencing supply chains. Prices for energy and freight currently lie well outside their historical ranges.

Kelheim Fibres GmbH has been successful in limiting the impact of the pandemic on fiber production. However, as a company operating its own cogeneration energy plant and with a high level of export business outside Europe, these cost factors have had a severe negative impact on margins during the second and third quarters of 2021. With energy costs set to remain at unprecedentedly high levels and potentially increase further in the fourth quarter, no relief to the high level of freight costs foreseeable, and raw material costs also remaining at a high level, the company needs to take steps to prevent further margin erosion.

Kelheim Fibres GmbH is therefore announcing that with effect from October 1, 2021, or as contracts and agreements allow, prices for its range of viscose fibers will be increased by 0.20 euros per kilogram. In addition, freight cost adjustments will be applied on an individual customer basis. In cases where energy cost adjustments are not included in contracts and agreements, a temporary energy surcharge will be applied.

“The measures we are taking are absolutely necessary to ensure that Kelheim Fibres remains in a position to supply fibres with the levels of quality and service expected by our customers,” said Matthew North, commercial director of Kelheim Fibres.

Kelheim Fibres’ Business Managers will be in contact with individual customers during September with further information.

Posted September 7, 2021

Source: Kelheim Fibres GmbH

INDEX™20 Exhibitor Preview: Oerlikon Nonwoven

NEUMÜNSTER, Germany — September 3, 2021 — “Your reliable partner in the nonwoven industry”  — the slogan speaks for itself: Oerlikon Nonwoven is exhibiting at the world’s leading nonwovens trade fair – the INDEX in Geneva, Switzerland, October 19-22, 2021 — with one of the market’s broadest portfolios. The Neumünster-based systems constructor will be focusing on market- and customer-oriented system solutions for filtration, hygiene, medical, geotextile and other industrial applications. Trade fair visitors can delve deep into the company’s comprehensive product and process know-how both live at trade fair stand no. 2314 and via the INDEX online platform.

Filtration: leading competences from Neumünster

Unique and highly-sophisticated nonwovens for filtration, insulation and sorption applications can be simply and efficiently manufactured thanks to Oerlikon Nonwoven’s meltblown technology.

The polymers used to produce the filter media and membranes are as diverse as their applications. The spectrum ranges from classical polyolefins (PP, PE), PET, PLA, PBT and PA all the way through to special plastics such as PPS and TPU. All these and other raw materials can be reliably processed using the Oerlikon Nonwoven meltblown procedures.

And the ecuTEC+ electro-charging unit electrostatically charges filter media in order to further increase filter efficiency. It distinguishes itself from other concepts currently available on the market as a result of its extreme flexibility. Users can choose from numerous possible variations and hence set the optimum charge intensity for their respective filter applications.

Comprehensive spunbond portfolio – always the right solution

For industrial nonwovens, Oerlikon Nonwoven systems are capable of high production capacities and yields with simultaneously low energy consumption. To this end, geotextiles made from polypropylene or polyester can be efficiently manufactured with running meter weights of up to 400 g/m2 and filament titers of up to 9 dtex, for example. And Oerlikon Nonwoven also offers specialized spunbond processes for producing nonwoven substrates for roofing underlays (PP or PET spunbonds) and so-called bitumen roofing substrates (needled PET spunbonds) for bitumen roofing membranes.

Furthermore, spunbond products are also becoming increasingly important in filtration applications – both as backing materials for filter media and as the filter media themselves. A flexible nonwoven structure permits the inclusion of customer-specific requirements for various functions. It is Oerlikon Nonwoven’s many years of core-sheath bi-component experience in particular that enable the creation of completely new nonwoven structures and hence the incorporation of various functions in a single material. The core-sheath bi-component spinning process permits various combined fiber cross-sections and also simultaneously different fibers to be produced from a single or different polymers. The spectrum ranges from core-sheath and side-by-side bi-component filaments, splitable fibers all the way through to so-called mixed fibers.

QSR: attractive spunmelt systems for the hygiene and medical market

For manufacturing hygiene and medical nonwovens, the QSR (Quality Sized Right) technology offers a financially-attractive solution for producing these highly-diverse spunbond and meltblown composites (SSMMS, SMMS, SSS, etc.) in accordance with globally-accepted standards. As a result of intensive collaborations and partnerships, close-knit quality assurance measures and extensive interaction with its technology partners, Oerlikon Nonwoven is able to equip this type of system with unique features that enable producers to distinguish themselves within their respective markets with special nonwoven properties such as higher volumes, softness and customer-specific embossed patterns, for example.

First-class wipes using our Phantom technology

With its Phantom platform, Oerlikon Nonwoven offers an alternative coform technology for manufacturing various wet wipes from pulp and polymer fibers. Here, the spunmelt and airlaid processes are combined in a manner that perfectly unites the properties of the starting materials. The material mix can comprise up to 90% cellulose fibers. Alternatively, cotton or synthetic fibers can also be added.

Compared to processes such as classical spunlace (hydroentangled carded nonwovens) produced to date, the Phantom technology offers ecological, performance and cost advantages. Dispensing with hydroentanglement renders subsequent drying of the material redundant. Product parameters, such as softness, tenacity, dirt absorption and liquid absorption, can be optimally set. The Phantom technology enables the manufacture of both flexible and absorbent structures and highly-textured materials.

Airlaid technology for sustainable nonwovens

Pulp or cellulose fibers as raw material for manufacturing nonwovens are currently virtually unrivaled with regards to sustainability and environmental compatibility. The Oerlikon Nonwoven airlaid process is the ideal solution for processing this raw material into high-end products for a wide range of applications. Today, there is huge demand for manufacturing solutions for high-quality, lightweight airlaid nonwovens with economically-attractive production speeds and system throughputs. Here, the patented Oerlikon Nonwoven formation process is setting standards – for homogeneous fiber laying and superb evenness even for nonwovens with low running meter weights. Furthermore, it permits the homogeneous mixing of the most diverse raw materials, including pulp, short- and long-staple natural and manmade fibers (up to 20 mm) and powders, as well as the utilization and combination of the most diverse mechanical, thermal and chemical tangling methods for creating the requisite product properties.

Posted September 3, 2021

Source: Oerlikon Nonwoven

Champion® Athleticwear Partners with The Renewal Workshop to Give Consumers Additional Eco-Friendly Apparel Choices

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — September 2, 2021 — As part of its global “Be Your Own Champion” campaign, Champion Athleticwear today announced that it has launched Champion Renewed in partnership with The Renewal Workshop — a company that renews apparel that would have otherwise gone into landfill.

The partnership helps extend the lifespan of the brand’s apparel and reduce waste, while supporting the “Be Your Own Champion” campaign inspired by Champion’s consumers — who care as much about how they play the game as the end result. It also articulates the brand’s commitment to designing stylish, athletic apparel and footwear that enables everyone to be a champion by confidently expressing themselves … and feel good while doing it.

The exclusive, Champion Renewed line features the brand’s iconic Reverse Weave® sweatshirts renewed by The Renewal Workshop. The collection ranges from $30-$45 (40-percent off the original MSRP) and is available at www.renewalworkshop.com/pages/champion.

“To us, ‘Be Your Own Champion’ means encouraging consumers to do things the right way and do them with heart — both on and off the field,” said Jon Ram, group president of global activewear for HanesBrands. “Extending the life of apparel that would have likely ended up in landfill is part of that effort, and it gives our consumers yet another reason to be proud to wear our brand.”

The Renewal Workshop uses Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology to measure the impact of the textile fibers most frequently received, such as cotton, polyester and wool. Using this data, in addition to each garment’s weight, the organization can evaluate energy savings, greenhouse gas reductions, and water consumption decreases, among other things, for each item that is renewed. The Renewal Workshop then sorts, grades, thoroughly sanitizes the products using state-of-the-art waterless technology and repairs them to like-new standards. Once inspected and verified to joint quality standards, they are given a Renewal Workshop tag and made available for purchase.

“We’re thrilled to have Champion join our growing list of brands, and we’re eager to support the brand in its larger efforts to salvage apparel, giving clothing a chance for a second life,” said Nicole Bassett, co-founder, The Renewal Workshop. “By having a brand as iconic as Champion begin the process with us, we’re encouraged that others within the industry will soon follow suit.”

The partnership between Champion and The Renewal Workshop is part of the brand’s promise to increase the use of responsibly made fabrics and find ways to creatively reuse products to reduce energy use and water consumption during the manufacturing process. As part of the HanesBrands family, Champion’s efforts support the company’s 2025-2030 global sustainability goals, which include all of its brands having a fully circular product or significant circularity initiative by 2025.

Champion has already made significant progress reaching ongoing sustainability goals, including offering classic jersey tees made with 100-percent U.S. cotton, which is traceable and some of the most responsibly produced fiber in the world; introducing two environmentally conscious collections, Natural State and Rally Pro Earth, in 2021; and manufacturing “Game Day” sweats using 95-percent recycled polyester fibers, as well as other Sport category apparel with a significant percentage of recycled polyester fiber.

To learn more about the brand’s “Be Your Own Champion” campaign and sustainability efforts, visit www.Champion.com

Posted September 2, 2021

Source: Champion Athleticwear

Herman Miller Increases Use Of Ocean-Bound Plastic With Aeron Chair

ZEELAND, Mich. — September 1, 2021 — Today, Herman Miller announced that its entire portfolio of Aeron Chairs will contain ocean-bound plastic, including a new color, Onyx Ultra Matte, which contains up to 2.5 pounds (1.13 kilograms) of mismanaged plastic waste found near waterways per chair. These material changes in the Aeron Portfolio are projected to save the ocean from over 150 tons of plastic annually — equal to approximately 15 million single-use plastic water bottles1.

The updates are part of Herman Miller’s membership in NextWave Plastics, its ongoing commitment to sustainability, and long-term goal to increase recycled content to at least 50 percent including the use of ocean-bound plastic across all material the company uses by 2030.

Aeron is the latest in a growing list of products Herman Miller has reengineered using ocean-bound plastic. The effort also includes parts of the recently launched OE1 Workplace Collection, the Sayl Chair in Europe, utility trays as part of pedestal units, and its latest textile collection, Revenio, which is made of 100 percent recycled materials and includes a biodegradable polyester. The company is also reducing its footprint by adding ocean-bound plastic to returnable shipping crates that send seating parts to and from suppliers and poly bags used to keep products safe during transit

“Every year, an estimated eight million tons of plastic enter the ocean. This is roughly equivalent to dumping a garbage truck full of plastic into the ocean every minute,” said Gabe Wing, Herman Miller’s director of Sustainability. “We joined NextWave to play an active role in taking on the ocean plastic problem and cast a wide net for opportunities to incorporate ocean-bound plastic across our global operations. We’re proud of the progress we’ve already made with packaging and textiles and are eager to continue doing our part in preventing harmful plastic from reaching our oceans by adding it to the iconic Aeron Chair.”

By integrating ocean-bound plastic into all these products and packaging solutions, Herman Miller estimates it will divert up to 234 metric tons of plastic from the ocean annually, equal to preventing close to 400,000 milk jugs or up to 23 million plastic bottles from entering the ocean annually1.

Ocean-bound plastic is plastic material that has not yet found its way into the ocean and is classified as “mismanaged waste.” This is plastic that is not being collected, is unlikely to be collected, and is found within 50 kilometers of a coastline. Common examples of ocean-bound plastic include plastic bottles, jugs, caps, and fishing gear.

When plastic waste builds up in coastal cities, suppliers work with local pickers to collect the plastic. Once collected, the material is ground, washed, and pelletized. From there, it is sold to manufacturers who test and re-engineer the plastic to incorporate into products.

“On our current trajectory we are at risk of tripling the rate of new plastic entering the ocean every year. A critical strategy to disrupt that path is to demonstrate the value of ocean-bound plastic. In bringing the Aeron Chair made with ocean-bound plastic to market, Herman Miller is not only proving the commercial value of the material, but showcasing the power of collective action in developing ocean-bound plastic supply chains,” said Dune Ives, CEO of Lonely Whale. “Herman Miller, and all members of the NextWave Plastics consortium, are taking the necessary action – today – to make a positive impact for the ocean and for us all.”

The plastic used in Aeron is currently sourced from India and Indonesia, which are two of many locations where Herman Miller and other NextWave member companies are creating demand and establishing a supply chain for this material. By sourcing ocean-bound plastic from these areas, the companies are making both economic and social impact by supporting local communities and employing individuals who make a living collecting mismanaged waste near the shoreline.

“We’re doing more than making an environmental impact,” said Bob Teasley, director of Supply Management at Herman Miller. “By working with coastal communities around the world to harvest ocean-bound plastic, we’re increasing demand, creating jobs, and boosting economies.”

Making the best, better for Earth
We advanced the Aeron Chair, adding ocean-bound plastic to the body — all without compromising what makes it the best work chair on Earth.

Aeron’s legacy of sustainability and innovation continues to evolve since its introduction nearly 30 years ago. Designed by Bill Stumpf and Don Chadwick in 1994 and remastered in 2016, it first proved pioneering in both ergonomics and material innovation, without relying on the standard use of foam, fabric, or leather found in most office chairs at the time.

The Aeron Chair is Herman Miller’s top selling seating solution and has received a variety of awards and recognition including the Good Design Award (GDA) from the Chicago Athenaeum Museum of Architecture and Design, FIRA (Furniture Industry Research Association) award, the IDSA Designs of the Decade award, and is part of the permanent collection of MOMA. It was also the company’s first product to receive the industry-leading Cradle to Cradle V3 Silver Level certification, assessed on environmental and social performance.

Depending on configuration, the ocean-bound plastic in Aeron can be found in the frame and tilt covers of the chair and contains between 0.5 and 2.5 pounds (226.8 g and 1.13 kg) of the material per chair, equivalent to approximately 23 to 114 plastic water bottles. The new Onyx Ultra Matte colorway contains the highest amount of ocean-bound plastic at almost 2.5 pounds (1.13 kg) per chair. All chairs within the Aeron Portfolio are up to 90 percent recyclable3 and composed of over 50 percent recycled content2.

Aeron is available in a palette of four material expressions centered on elements pulled from the Earth. Onyx is a dramatic ultra-black shade intended to modernize Aeron. Graphite is a distinctive dark gray, with a classic textured finish. Carbon offers a balanced neutral that works equally well in warm and cool environments. Mineral is the lightest and illuminates Aeron’s finer points, ideal for open floorplans and spaces. Each component of the chair was thoughtfully designed, creating a fundamentally harmonious color palette.

Aeron’s new Onyx Ultra Matte colorway will be available to order in North America starting in September 2021. All Aeron colors and configurations will be updated to contain ocean-bound plastic and will be available to order soon globally. Other use-cases with ocean-bound plastic including OE1, packaging, and the Revenio textile collection are in production now.

1 Based on annual sales forecast
2 Based on top selling global model
3 Based on available recycling facilities

Posted September 2, 2021

Source: Herman Miller, Inc.

Moose Knuckles Announces Increased Investment And Expanded Leadership Role Of CEO For Shareholder And Executive Chairman Victor Luis

MONTREAL — September 1, 2021 — Rapid and momentous changes are afoot at Canadian luxury outerwear and sportwear brand, Moose Knuckles, since the recent announcement of industry veteran Victor Luis’ appointment as executive chairman and his financial partnership with Moose Knuckles’ co-founders and global investment firm Cathay Capital.

After several months working alongside co-founders Noah Stern and Ayal Twik, Luis’ role is expanding to include CEO, driving the brand’s global vision, while Stern and Twik will lead the creative aspects of the business as chief product officer and chief marketing officer, respectively. Both will retain their board seats and maintain their respective shares of ownership in the company.

“I am super excited to be able to focus full time on what I love which is driving culture, brand building and fostering consumer engagement,” Twik said. “I could not be more thrilled about our quickly increasing growth and scale and the strong teams we have in place to execute our strategies. This change in corporate structure will allow me to focus on areas I am passionate about.”

Stern said: “I could not be more proud of the global luxury brand we have built and the exceptional products we continue to bring to market. Our coats and parkas are rated as the world’s warmest, and as we expand our offering into other seasons, I am so charged to focus all my energies on continuing to break boundaries in creating killer fashion products of the highest quality. All of our teams are excited to bring innovative products and experiences to Moose Knuckles’ fans across the world.”

Moose Knuckles recently announced a range of environmental and social initiatives focusing on the long-term sustainability of its global footprint. The company also recently announced the end of production with natural fur by end of 2022. This commitment, along with becoming a multi-season brand and leveraging new digital channels globally are foundational pillars of its growth strategy.

Twik and Stern added: “Victor is one of the rare leaders in the industry — one who has a commercial view to business while maintaining and inspiring a deep respect and passion for the creative process. We admire the way he thinks about business, luxury, culture, and the fashion industry as a whole. He also shares our belief in the importance of a culture-led company that is focused on creating memorable consumer experiences one client at a time. We have a strong management team in place and are excited to have Victor as the company’s Chairman and CEO as we prepare to capture the tremendous opportunity ahead for long-term global brand growth.”

Over the past five years, Moose Knuckles has continued to track significant double-digit year-over-year growth. Last year alone, the brand experienced a nearly triple-digit increase in direct-to-consumer sales along with a 12x growth in China, despite the challenges of the pandemic.

“There has never been a more exciting time for branded luxury outerwear and Moose Knuckles is poised to become the next big player in the global market,” said Victor Luis, Executive Chairman and CEO of Moose Knuckles. “My family’s increased equity investment is a reflection of our excitement over what we have learned during the last several months and the tremendous opportunity for growth ahead of us. Moose Knuckles’ recent organizational changes are built to capture and accelerate growth as we continue to recruit top talent and transform systems and processes to support the brand’s global expansion and elevate our capacity to execute at the highest levels.”

While Moose Knuckles’ wholesale business remains significant with distribution in the finest retailers in over 30 countries worldwide including Selfridges, Holt Renfrew, Saks Fifth Avenue, Isetan, and Lane Crawford, the brand has aggressive plans to increase its global brick-and-mortar footprint to over 35 stores and pop-ups in addition to significant investment behind its ecommerce flagship, focusing on more meaningful direct-to-consumer experiences.

Posted September 2, 2021

Source: Moose Knuckles Canada

Manufacturing PMI® at 59.9%; August 2021 Manufacturing ISM® Report On Business®

TEMPE, Ariz. — September 1, 2021 — Economic activity in the manufacturing sector grew in August, with the overall economy notching a 15th 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 August Manufacturing PMI® registered 59.9 percent, an increase of 0.4 percentage point from the July reading of 59.5 percent. This figure indicates expansion in the overall economy for the 15th month in a row after contraction in April 2020. The New Orders Index registered 66.7 percent, increasing 1.8 percentage points from the July reading of 64.9 percent. The Production Index registered 60 percent, an increase of 1.6 percentage points compared to the July reading of 58.4 percent. The Prices Index registered 79.4 percent, down 6.3 percentage points compared to the July figure of 85.7 percent; this is its first reading below 80 percent since December 2020 (77.6 percent). The Backlog of Orders Index registered 68.2 percent, 3.2 percentage points higher than the July reading of 65 percent. The Employment Index indicated contraction at 49 percent, 3.9 percentage points lower compared to the July reading of 52.9 percent. The Supplier Deliveries Index registered 69.5 percent, down 3 percentage points from the July figure of 72.5 percent. The Inventories Index registered 54.2 percent, 5.3 percentage points higher than the July reading of 48.9 percent. The New Export Orders Index registered 56.6 percent, an increase of 0.9 percentage point compared to the July reading of 55.7 percent. The Imports Index registered 54.3 percent, an 0.6-percentage point increase from the July reading of 53.7 percent.”

Fiore continues, “Business Survey Committee panelists reported that their companies and suppliers continue to struggle at unprecedented levels to meet increasing demand. All segments of the manufacturing economy are impacted by record-long raw-materials lead times, continued shortages of critical basic materials, rising commodities prices and difficulties in transporting products. The new surges of COVID-19 are adding to pandemic-related issues — worker absenteeism, short-term shutdowns due to parts shortages, difficulties in filling open positions and overseas supply chain problems — that continue to limit manufacturing-growth potential. However, optimistic panel sentiment remained strong, with eight positive comments for every cautious comment. Demand expanded, with the (1) New Orders Index growing, supported by continued expansion of the New Export Orders Index, (2) Customers’ Inventories Index remaining at very low levels and (3) Backlog of Orders Index staying at a very high level. Consumption (measured by the Production and Employment indexes) declined in the period, with a combined 2.3-percentage point decrease to the Manufacturing PMI calculation. The Employment Index returned to contraction after one month of expansion; hiring difficulties at panelists’ companies were the most significant hurdle to further output in August, as validated by the growth in inventory accounts. Inputs — expressed as supplier deliveries, inventories, and imports — continued to support input-driven constraints to production expansion, at slower rates compared to July. The Supplier Deliveries Index softened while the Inventories Index made a strong move into expansion territory due to improvements in raw material deliveries as well as work in progress inventory being held longer due to key part shortages. The Prices Index expanded for the 15th consecutive month, indicating continued supplier pricing power and scarcity of supply chain goods.

“All of the six biggest manufacturing industries — Computer & Electronic Products; Fabricated Metal Products; Chemical Products; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Transportation Equipment; and Petroleum & Coal Products, in that order — registered moderate to strong growth in August.

“Manufacturing performed well for the 15th straight month, with demand, consumption and inputs registering month-over-month growth, in spite of unprecedented obstacles. Panelists’ companies and their supply chains continue to struggle to respond to strong demand due to difficulties in hiring and a clear cycle of labor turnover as workers opt for more attractive job conditions. Disruptions from COVID-19, primarily in Southeast Asia, are having dramatic impacts on many industry sectors. Ports congestion in China continues to be a headwind as transportation networks remain stressed. Demand remains at strong levels, despite increased prices for nearly everything,” Fiore said.

The 15 manufacturing industries reporting growth in August — in the following order — are: Furniture & Related Products; Computer & Electronic Products; Machinery; Primary Metals; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Fabricated Metal Products; Plastics & Rubber Products; Chemical Products; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Transportation Equipment; Wood Products; Printing & Related Support Activities; Paper Products; and Petroleum & Coal Products. The two industries reporting a decrease in August compared to July are Textile Mills; and Nonmetallic Mineral Products.

What Respondents Are Saying

“The chip shortage is impacting supply lines. So far, we’ve been able to manage it without impacting clients.” [Computer & Electronic Products]

“Some factories have been impacted by COVID-19 cases. Malaysian government says factories can operate at only 60 percent of capacity.” [Computer & Electronic Products]

“We continue to see extended lead times due to port delays and sea container tightness. Manufacturing capacities are impacted by a lack of workers reducing output. Several chemical facilities have experienced fires, explosions and spills, further challenging suppliers’ ability to deliver on time and in full.” [Chemical Products]

“Strong sales continue, but production is limited due to supply issues with chips.” [Transportation Equipment]

“Supply chain functions have been relentlessly challenging. All things from freight (both over the road and ocean), already constrained labor forces are further exacerbated by COVID-19 absenteeism. Also, high prices everywhere are wearing our employee base down.” [Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products]

“Oil prices have remained higher than planned and is helping to secure capital funds and project sanctions for 2021-22 projects.” [Petroleum & Coal Products]

“Bookings/sales continue to be strong. Persistent supply issues — including availability of materials, freight/logistics/containers, and allocation of key commodities — continue to hamper production ramp to meet demand. Also struggling with lack of labor in several factories. Commodities are still inflationary, but price increases have leveled.” [Furniture & Related Products]

“Business is strong. Part shortages are our largest business constraint. We cannot fulfill orders to customers in reasonable lead times. Now booking out into 2022, and it will get worse as we hit our cyclical high demand in the fourth quarter.” [Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components]

“Business is going strong, but raw material prices still under increasing price pressure. Labor is still an issue.” [Plastics & Rubber Products]

“Continue to be unable to hire hourly personnel or machine operators due to few applicants. Steel and aluminum remain in short supply. New business continues to grow and come in. Unable to handle influx of orders without staff, both hourly and salaried.” [Fabricated Metal Products]

“Customer order backlog continues to climb because we are unable to raise production rates due to supplier parts and manpower challenges. Continue to see price increases with key commodities, and logistics is an ongoing challenge that has no end in sight.” [Machinery]

MANUFACTURING AT A GLANCE

August 2021
Index Series Index

Aug

 Series Index

Jul

 Percentage

Point

Change

 Direction Rate of
Change Trend* (Months)
Manufacturing PMI® 59.9 59.5 +0.4 Growing Faster 15
New Orders 66.7 64.9 +1.8 Growing Faster 15
Production 60.0 58.4 +1.6 Growing Faster 15
Employment 49.0 52.9 -3.9 Contracting From Growing 1
Supplier Deliveries 69.5 72.5 -3.0 Slowing Slower 66
Inventories 54.2 48.9 +5.3 Growing From Contracting 1
Customers’ Inventories 30.2 25.0 +5.2 Too Low Slower 59
Prices 79.4 85.7 -6.3 Increasing Slower 15
Backlog of Orders 68.2 65.0 +3.2 Growing Faster 14
New Export Orders 56.6 55.7 +0.9 Growing Faster 14
Imports 54.3 53.7 +0.6 Growing Faster 14
OVERALL ECONOMY Growing Faster 15
Manufacturing Sector Growing Faster 15

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

Adhesives (2); Aluminum (15); Aluminum Extrusions; Aluminum Products (5); Capacitors (2); Caustic Soda (3); Cement; Copper-Based Products; Corrugate (11); Corrugated Packaging (10); Crude Oil (3); Diesel Fuel (8); Electrical Components (9); Electrical Motors (2); Electronic Components (9); Freight (10); High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) (8); Hydraulic Components (2); Labor — Temporary (4); Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE); Lumber* (14); Natural Gas (2); Ocean Freight (9); Packaging Supplies (9); Pallets (2); Plastic Resins (12); Polyethylene (7); Polypropylene (14); Resin-Based Products (7); Resistors (2); Rubber-Based Products; Semiconductors (7); Soybean Oil; Steel (13); Steel — Carbon (9); Steel — Cold Rolled; Steel — Hot Rolled (12); Steel — Scrap (4); Steel — Stainless (10); and Steel Products (12).

Commodities Down in Price

Lumber* (2); and Wood.

Commodities in Short Supply

Adhesives & Paint (2); Aluminum (5); Aluminum Products (4); Cable Assemblies; Capacitors (2); Corrugated Packaging (2); Electrical Components (11); Electronic Components (9); Foam; Hydraulic Components (2); Labor — Temporary (4); Lumber (2); Metal Components; Ocean Freight (5); Plastic Products (7); Plastic Resins — Other (6); Polypropylene; Printed Circuit Board Assemblies; Resin-Based Products; Resistors (2); Rubber-Based Products; Semiconductors (9); Steel (9); Steel — Hot Rolled (10); Steel — Stainless (6); Steel Castings; and Steel Products (7).

Note: The number of consecutive months the commodity is listed is indicated after each item. *Indicates those commodities reported both up and down in price.

August 2021 Manufacturing Index Summaries

Manufacturing PMI®

Manufacturing grew in August, as the Manufacturing PMI registered 59.9 percent, 0.4 percentage point higher than the July reading of 59.5 percent. “The Manufacturing PMI continued to indicate strong sector expansion and U.S. economic growth in August. Four out of five subindexes that directly factor into the Manufacturing PMI were in growth territory. All of the six biggest manufacturing industries expanded, in the following order: Computer & Electronic Products; Fabricated Metal Products; Chemical Products; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Transportation Equipment; and Petroleum & Coal Products. The New Orders and Production indexes continued to expand at strong levels. The Supplier Deliveries Index continued to reflect suppliers’ difficulties in maintaining delivery rates, due to a lack of direct labor, transportation challenges and sustained levels of increasing demand. Nine out of 10 subindexes were positive for the period; a reading of ‘too low’ for Customers’ Inventories Index 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 Manufacturing PMI above 43.1 percent, over a period of time, generally indicates an expansion of the overall economy. Therefore, the August Manufacturing PMI indicates the overall economy grew in August for the 15th consecutive month following contraction in April 2020. “The past relationship between the Manufacturing PMI and the overall economy indicates that the Manufacturing PMI for August (59.9 percent) corresponds to a 4.8-percent increase in real gross domestic product (GDP) on an annualized basis,” says Fiore.

The Last 12 Months

Month Manufacturing

PMI®

 Month Manufacturing

PMI®
Aug 2021 59.9 Feb 2021 60.8
Jul 2021 59.5 Jan 2021 58.7
Jun 2021 60.6 Dec 2020 60.5
May 2021 61.2 Nov 2020 57.7
Apr 2021 60.7 Oct 2020 58.8
Mar 2021 64.7 Sep 2020 55.7
Average for 12 months – 59.9

High – 64.7

Low – 55.7

 

New Orders

ISM’s New Orders Index registered 66.7 percent in August, up 1.8 percentage points compared to the 64.9 percent reported in July. This indicates that new orders grew for the 15th consecutive month. “All of the six largest manufacturing sectors — Computer & Electronic Products; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Petroleum & Coal Products; Chemical Products; Transportation Equipment; and Fabricated Metal Products, in that order — expanded at strong levels. This is the 14th consecutive month of index readings of above 60, matching a 14-month streak during the last manufacturing expansion, which began in February 2016,” says Fiore. A New Orders Index above 52.8 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 14 that reported growth in new orders in August — in the following order — are: Furniture & Related Products; Computer & Electronic Products; Printing & Related Support Activities; Machinery; Paper Products; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Primary Metals; Plastics & Rubber Products; Petroleum & Coal Products; Chemical Products; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; Transportation Equipment; Fabricated Metal Products; and Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components. The only industry reporting a decline in new orders in August is Nonmetallic Mineral Products.

New Orders %Higher %Same %Lower Net Index
Aug 2021 38.0 52.8 9.2 +28.8 66.7
Jul 2021 34.7 62.0 3.3 +31.4 64.9
Jun 2021 42.1 49.7 8.2 +33.9 66.0
May 2021 46.9 43.1 10.0 +36.9 67.0

 

Production

The Production Index registered 60 percent in August, 1.6 percentage points higher than the July reading of 58.4 percent, indicating growth for the 15th consecutive month. “All of the top six industries —Computer & Electronic Products; Chemical Products; Petroleum & Coal Products; Fabricated Metal Products; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; and Transportation Equipment, in that order — expanded at strong to moderate levels. Raw materials continued to be a constraint to production growth, but less so compared to July, as raw-materials inventories reached their highest levels in this cycle. Persistent hiring issues continue,” says Fiore. An index above 52.1 percent, over time, is generally consistent with an increase in the Federal Reserve Board’s Industrial Production figures.

The 13 industries reporting growth in production during the month of August — listed in order — are: Furniture & Related Products; Wood Products; Printing & Related Support Activities; Computer & Electronic Products; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Chemical Products; Petroleum & Coal Products; Machinery; Fabricated Metal Products; Primary Metals; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; and Transportation Equipment. The four industries reporting a decrease in August compared to July are: Textile Mills; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Paper Products; and Plastics & Rubber Products.

Production %Higher %Same %Lower Net Index
Aug 2021 31.9 54.5 13.5 +18.4 60.0
Jul 2021 31.1 59.9 9.1 +22.0 58.4
Jun 2021 39.1 49.3 11.6 +27.5 60.8
May 2021 39.2 43.6 17.2 +22.0 58.5

 

Employment

ISM’s Employment Index registered 49 percent in August, 3.9 percentage points below the July reading of 52.9 percent. “The Employment Index returned to contraction territory after one month above 50 percent. Of the six big manufacturing sectors, three (Computer & Electronic Products; Fabricated Metal Products; and Transportation Equipment) expanded. Strong new-order levels, low customers’ inventories and expanding backlogs belied the reduction in employment strength. Survey panelists’ companies are still struggling to meet labor-management plans, but despite a contracting index, there were positive signs compared to recent months: An overwhelming majority of panelists indicate their companies are hiring or attempting to hire, with about 35 percent of comments — a decrease from previous months — expressing difficulty in filling positions. A significant number of panelists note increasing employee-turnover rates, continuing a trend evident in the comments in July,” says Fiore. An Employment Index above 50.6 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 seven reporting employment growth in August — in the following order — are: Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Furniture & Related Products; Primary Metals; Computer & Electronic Products; Machinery; Fabricated Metal Products; and Transportation Equipment. The seven industries reporting a decrease in employment in August — listed in order — are: Textile Mills; Paper Products; Printing & Related Support Activities; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Petroleum & Coal Products; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; and Chemical Products.

Employment %Higher %Same %Lower Net Index
Aug 2021 20.3 58.2 21.5 -1.2 49.0
Jul 2021 26.1 57.8 16.0 +10.1 52.9
Jun 2021 26.6 54.1 19.3 +7.3 49.9
May 2021 20.8 61.1 18.0 +2.8 50.9

 

Supplier Deliveries †

The delivery performance of suppliers to manufacturing organizations was slower in August, as the Supplier Deliveries Index registered 69.5 percent, 3 percentage points lower than the 72.5 percent reported in July and the third straight month of slowing expansion. Of the six top manufacturing industries, five (Fabricated Metal Products; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Computer & Electronic Products; Chemical Products; and Transportation Equipment) reported slowing deliveries. “Deliveries slowed at a slower rate compared to the previous month, but the index continues to reflect suppliers’ difficulties in meeting customer demand, including (1) ongoing hiring challenges, (2) extended raw-materials lead times at lower tiers and stubbornly high prices, and (3) inconsistent transportation availability,” says Fiore. A reading below 50 percent indicates faster deliveries, while a reading above 50 percent indicates slower deliveries.

The 16 industries that reported slower supplier deliveries in August — in the following order — are: Apparel, Leather & Allied Products; Textile Mills; Furniture & Related Products; Paper Products; Machinery; Fabricated Metal Products; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; Printing & Related Support Activities; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Computer & Electronic Products; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Plastics & Rubber Products; Chemical Products; Primary Metals; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; and Transportation Equipment.

Supplier Deliveries %Slower %Same %Faster Net Index
Aug 2021 42.7 53.7 3.6 +39.1 69.5
Jul 2021 48.1 48.8 3.1 +45.0 72.5
Jun 2021 53.5 43.2 3.3 +50.2 75.1
May 2021 58.9 39.7 1.4 +57.5 78.8

 

Inventories

The Inventories Index registered 54.2 percent in August, 5.3 percentage points higher than the 48.9 percent reported for July, returning to expansion territory after one month of contraction. “Inventories remain unstable due to ongoing supplier constraints, as demonstrated by the index returning to expansion. In August, supplier delivery rates exceeded production levels, causing inventory levels to increase. This is a positive indication that the supply chain is finally making headway. There may also be an effect of work in progress inventory (WIP) becoming a larger percentage of total inventory due to slower WIP cycle times. Computer & Electronic Products and Transportation Equipment are notable contributors to significant gains in Inventory levels in part due to part shortage issues. This is the highest level of inventories expansion since November 2018, when the index registered 54.4 percent,” says Fiore. An Inventories Index greater than 44.5 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 10 industries reporting higher inventories in August — in the following order — are: Plastics & Rubber Products; Furniture & Related Products; Primary Metals; Fabricated Metal Products; Computer & Electronic Products; Chemical Products; Transportation Equipment; Machinery; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; and Miscellaneous Manufacturing. The two industries reporting a decrease in inventories in August are Apparel, Leather & Allied Products; and Printing & Related Support Activities. Six industries reported no change in inventories in August compared to July.

Inventories %Higher %Same %Lower Net Index
Aug 2021 25.4 60.5 14.2 +11.2 54.2
Jul 2021 21.6 53.7 24.7 -3.1 48.9
Jun 2021 20.7 59.9 19.4 +1.3 51.1
May 2021 23.8 54.1 22.2 +1.6 50.8

 

Customers’ Inventories †

ISM’s Customers’ Inventories Index registered 30.2 percent in August, 5.2 percentage points above the 25 percent reported for July, indicating that customers’ inventory levels were considered too low. “Customers’ inventories are too low for the 59th consecutive month, a positive for future production growth. For 13 straight months, the Customers’ Inventories Index has been at historically low levels,” says Fiore.

No industries reported higher customers’ inventories in August. The 15 industries reporting customers’ inventories as too low during August — listed in order — are: Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Textile Mills; Primary Metals; Furniture & Related Products; Machinery; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; Chemical Products; Paper Products; Wood Products; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Fabricated Metal Products; Computer & Electronic Products; Plastics & Rubber Products; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; and Transportation Equipment.

Customers’
Inventories %
Reporting %Too
High %About
Right %Too
Low  

Net

  

Index
Aug 2021 75 5.6 49.0 45.3 -39.7 30.2
Jul 2021 74 6.3 37.4 56.3 -50.0 25.0
Jun 2021 79 6.5 48.7 44.8 -38.3 30.8
May 2021 79 4.6 46.8 48.6 -44.0 28.0

 

Prices †

The ISM Prices Index registered 79.4 percent, a decrease of 6.3 percentage points compared to the July reading of 85.7 percent, indicating raw-materials prices increased for the 15th consecutive month, but at slower levels. “Aluminum, electrical and electronic components, energy, some plastics and plastic products, freight, and steels continue to remain at elevated prices due to product scarcity, but supply and demand dynamics appear to be moving closer to equilibrium, as stated in recent months,” says Fiore. A Prices Index above 52.7 percent, over time, is generally consistent with an increase in the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Producer Price Index for Intermediate Materials.

In August, 16 of 18 industries reported paying increased prices for raw materials, in the following order: Apparel, Leather & Allied Products; Plastics & Rubber Products; Printing & Related Support Activities; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Fabricated Metal Products; Furniture & Related Products; Paper Products; Machinery; Transportation Equipment; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Primary Metals; Computer & Electronic Products; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; Chemical Products; Wood Products; and Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products. The only industry reporting a decline in prices in August is Petroleum & Coal Products.

Prices %Higher %Same %Lower Net Index
Aug 2021 62.8 33.3 3.9 +58.9 79.4
Jul 2021 73.8 23.8 2.4 +71.4 85.7
Jun 2021 84.8 14.5 0.7 +84.1 92.1
May 2021 77.1 21.6 1.2 +75.9 88.0

 

Backlog of Orders †

ISM’s Backlog of Orders Index registered 68.2 percent in August, a 3.2-percentage point increase compared to the 65 percent reported in July, indicating order backlogs expanded for the 14th straight month. “Backlogs expanded at a higher rate in August compared to July, indicating production was unable to keep up with continuing strong new order levels. Of the six big industry sectors, five (Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Computer & Electronic Products; Transportation Equipment; Chemical Products; and Fabricated Metal Products) reported that backlogs expanded strongly,” says Fiore.

The 15 industries reporting growth in order backlogs in August, in the following order, are: Apparel, Leather & Allied Products; Textile Mills; Furniture & Related Products; Printing & Related Support Activities; Machinery; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Computer & Electronic Products; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; Plastics & Rubber Products; Paper Products; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Transportation Equipment; Chemical Products; Fabricated Metal Products; and Primary Metals. No industry reported lower backlogs in August compared to July.

Backlog of
Orders %
Reporting %Higher %Same %Lower Net Index
Aug 2021 91 44.5 47.5 8.0 +36.5 68.2
Jul 2021 92 36.2 57.5 6.2 +30.0 65.0
Jun 2021 92 39.5 50.1 10.4 +29.1 64.5
May 2021 91 49.1 42.9 8.0 +41.1 70.6

 

New Export Orders †

ISM’s New Export Orders Index registered 56.6 percent in August, up 0.9 percentage point compared to the July reading of 55.7 percent. “The New Export Orders Index grew for the 14th consecutive month, at a slightly faster rate compared to July. Of the six big industry sectors, five (Computer & Electronic Products; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Chemical Products; Transportation Equipment; and Fabricated Metal Products) expanded. New export orders were again a positive factor to the growth in the New Orders Index,” says Fiore.

The eight industries reporting growth in new export orders in August — in the following order — are: Furniture & Related Products; Computer & Electronic Products; Paper Products; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; Chemical Products; Transportation Equipment; and Fabricated Metal Products. The two industries reporting a decrease in new export orders in August are Plastics & Rubber Products; and Machinery. Seven industries reported no change in exports in August compared to July.

New Export 
Orders %
Reporting %Higher %Same %Lower Net Index
Aug 2021 75 17.9 77.5 4.6 +13.3 56.6
Jul 2021 74 16.9 77.5 5.6 +11.3 55.7
Jun 2021 76 17.7 77.1 5.2 +12.5 56.2
May 2021 74 16.8 77.2 6.0 +10.8 55.4

 

Imports †

ISM’s Imports Index registered 54.3 percent in August, an increase of 0.6 percentage point compared to July’s figure of 53.7 percent. “Imports expanded for the 14th consecutive month, at a somewhat faster rate compared to July, reflecting continuing challenges with throughput at U.S. ports of entry. Overland-transport challenges and container shortages continue to persist across the global supply chain, causing major stability issues with respect to predictable import levels. Imports will continue to be challenged through the end of 2021,” says Fiore.

The eight industries reporting growth in imports in August — in the following order — are: Chemical Products; Primary Metals; Computer & Electronic Products; Furniture & Related Products; Transportation Equipment; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Plastics & Rubber Products; and Machinery. The three industries reporting a decrease in imports in August are Wood Products; Paper Products; and Miscellaneous Manufacturing. Seven industries reported no change in imports in August compared to July.

Imports %
Reporting %Higher %Same %Lower Net Index
Aug 2021 86 17.5 73.6 8.8 +8.7 54.3
Jul 2021 87 17.8 71.8 10.4 +7.4 53.7
Jun 2021 86 30.7 60.6 8.7 +22.0 61.0
May 2021 85 20.6 66.8 12.7 +7.9 54.0

†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 in August by two days to 146 days. Average lead time for production materials in August increased by five days to 91 days, the highest figure since ISM® began collecting this data in 1987. Average lead time for Maintenance, Repair and Operating (MRO) Supplies increased in August by three days to 45 days.

Percent Reporting
Capital Expenditures Hand-to-
Mouth 30 Days 60 Days 90 Days 6 Months 1 Year+ Average
Days
Aug 2021 23 4 9 14 30 20 146
Jul 2021 23 5 6 14 32 20 148
Jun 2021 23 5 8 16 28 20 144
May 2021 21 5 11 12 31 20 148
Percent Reporting
Production Materials Hand-to-
Mouth 30 Days 60 Days 90 Days 6 Months 1 Year+ Average
Days
Aug 2021 12 19 27 22 13 7 91
Jul 2021 12 21 28 19 15 5 86
Jun 2021 11 23 27 19 14 6 88
May 2021 11 23 25 23 13 5 85
Percent Reporting
MRO Supplies Hand-to-
Mouth 30 Days 60 Days 90 Days 6 Months 1 Year+ Average
Days
Aug 2021 28 38 16 13 4 1 45
Jul 2021 26 38 21 11 4 0 42
Jun 2021 30 33 20 12 4 1 45
May 2021 28 39 18 10 5 0 42

 

Posted September 2, 2021

Source: Institute for Supply Management

Aurora Hosts Visit From U.S. Trade Representative Ambassador Katherine Tai, Congresswoman Lauren Underwood, Regional Manufacturing Leaders And Union Representatives

Marcia Ayala welcoming Ambassador Tai, Congresswoman Underwood and visitors to the event.

YORKVILLE, Ill. — September 1, 2021 — On August 31, Aurora Specialty Textiles Group welcomed Congresswoman Lauren Underwood (IL-14) and United States Trade Representative Ambassador Katherine Tai to Aurora’s state-of-the-art Yorkville, Ill.-based manufacturing plant.

The visit included a tour of Aurora’s operations and was tied to the US Congress’ Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which has passed the United States Senate and is pending for vote in the House of Representatives. The bill would include support across Illinois communities for public transit, improvements to roads and bridges, infrastructure for clean drinking water, electric vehicle support, and improved passenger and freight rail and programs.

“It was an honor and privilege to host these two accomplished and pioneering women to Aurora Specialty Textiles,” said Marcia Ayala, president of Aurora Specialty Textiles Group. “It was a great event and the discussion was enlightening as we shared the concerns and challenges manufacturers and employees face today.”

During the visit, Congresswoman Underwood and Ambassador Tai held a roundtable discussion that featured women-led manufacturing firms and union representatives from the Illinois 14th Congressional District. The event was hosted by Ayala and Bruce Pindyck, the chairman and CEO of Meridian Industries, Aurora’s parent company.

Photo of Roundtable participants (left to right): Patricia Miller, CEO of Matrix 4; John Gedney, United Automobile, Aerospace, and Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW); Gladys Campos, Chicago and Midwest Regional Joint Board, Workers United; Brian Simmons, International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers Midwest Territory; Nicole Wolter, president of H.M. Manufacturing; Congresswomen Underwood; USTR Ambassador Tai; Chandler Slavin-Bond, owner, Dordan Manufacturing Inc.; David Boulay, Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center; Gina Lipscomb, owner, RJ Lipscomb Engineering; and Marcia Ayala

In addition to Ayala, manufacturing leaders who attended the round table discussion included Patricia Miller, CEO, Matrix 4; Chandler Slavin-Bond, owner, Doran Manufacturing Inc.;  Gina Lipscomb of RJ Lipscomb Engineering; and Nicole Wolter, president, H. M. Manufacturing. Brian Simmons, Gladys Campos and John Gedney represented regional labor unions and their employees. David Boulay, president of the Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center also participated.

“We discussed the bipartisan infrastructure bill and other initiatives beneficial to US manufacturers that Congresswomen Underwood and Ambassador Tai are working on,” Ayala said. “It was a great opportunity to give our perspectives on issues currently facing manufacturers and issues specific to our businesses,” Ayala added. “The Congresswoman and Ambassador were very interested to learn about the challenges we face running our businesses and to discuss how those problems can be addressed through legislation and trade policies.
”

During the event’s roundtable discussion, Ambassador Tai said she is touring U.S. manufacturing companies to learn what manufacturers need in terms of trade policy. The roundtable discussion also covered questions and concerns related to infrastructure, supply chain, the lack of a skilled workforce, women in manufacturing, climate change and the post-COVID economy.

Ayala explains how the Range 1 coating head works to Underwood and Tai.

Ayala pointed out that women currently account for fewer than one in three manufacturing jobs, although they represent about half of the overall workforce. “Currently,” she explained, “manufacturing jobs are very difficult to fill and women are a huge potential to help fill the gap, so it is critical to attract them. In addition, diverse companies outperform those that lack diversity in their workforces.”

Following the discussion, Underwood and Ambassador Tai toured Aurora’s manufacturing operations. This featured Aurora’s R&D lab, a tour of Aurora’s Ranges and Inspection areas, as well as a visit to the plant’s quality lab. Press were invited on the tour and Congresswoman Underwood held a press conference afterward with media, roundtable participants and union representatives.

Bruce, Ambassador Tai, Congresswoman Underwood and Ayala near Range 1 during a tour of the plant.

“I was very honored as the chairman and chief executive officer of Meridian Industries to participate as a host of the visit this week by Ambassador Tai and Congresswoman Underwood,” Pindyck said. “I am very proud that these two very accomplished governmental leaders were able to dialog with Marcia Ayala, our similarly accomplished president of Aurora, and other women business leaders and union representatives. Marcia is a prime example of the opportunities for women at the Meridian group of companies and other manufacturing companies. Our governing bodies and our manufacturing companies must continue to partner together to attract women to our companies as we work to grow and strengthen domestic manufacturing.

Posted September 2, 2021

Source: Aurora Specialty Textiles Group

ecorepel® Dry Cleaning Resistant – Ecological Water Repellency That Is PFC-Free AND Dry Cleaning Resistant

SEVELEN, Switzerland — September 2, 2021 — In recent years, the textile industry has developed significantly in terms of environmentally-friendly water repellency. Many manufacturers have already successfully replaced textile finishes containing fluorocarbons with fluorocarbon-free (PFC-free) finishes. Nevertheless, many textiles equipped with alternative finishes are reaching their limits in performance. Especially when it comes to materials that are subject to heavy wear or require a special type of care.

The PFC-free, water-repellent ecorepel® technology launched by schoeller® in 2012 has now been further developed to allow for successful application on textiles and apparel that are “dry clean only.”

ecorepel DCR achieves impressive water-repellency results, even after several home launderings and professional dry cleaning cycles. The resistance to professional dry cleaning refers to the F-cleaning symbol, which stands for a recommended cleaning process for sensitive fabrics using hydrocarbon solvents. In addition, tests show that materials finished with ecorepel DCR are highly resistant to abrasion and scuffing. ecorepel DCR technology is now available for licensing and can be used in a variety of applications, such as outdoor, sport and fashion apparel, as well as upholstery fabrics.

Posted September 2, 2021

Source: Schoeller Textil AG

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