NatureWorks Passes Final Authorization Milestone For New Fully Integrated Ingeo PLA Manufacturing Plant In Thailand

MINNETONKA, Minn. — August 9, 2021 — Continuing its global manufacturing expansion plan, NatureWorks, manufacturer of low-carbon polylactic acid (PLA) biopolymers made from renewable resources, has obtained final authorization from parent companies, GC International Corp. Co. Ltd., a subsidiary of PTT Global Chemical Public Co. Ltd. (GC) and Cargill Inc. (Cargill), to build a new Ingeo™ PLA manufacturing complex in Thailand. NatureWorks plans to invest in excess of $600 million to construct the complex, which will include production sites for lactic acid, lactide, and polymer, making it the world’s first PLA facility designed to be fully integrated.

“Thanks to the ongoing support of our parent companies, our plans for a second Ingeo PLA manufacturing location continue to progress,” said Rich Altice, president and CEO of NatureWorks. “This authorization was an important milestone that ensures we will be ready to begin construction in 2022 on an integrated manufacturing complex that will help us address the increasing global market demand for sustainable materials.”

Dr. Kongrapan Intarajang, CEO of GC, said: “GC, Thailand’s leading chemical company and the world’s leading environmentally friendly bio-chemical producer, is committed to operating in accordance with sustainability guidelines and circular economy principles. Sustainability creates balanced growth in economic, social, and environmental dimensions, driven by the framework of the SDGs. Today, GC and Cargill, joint owners of NatureWorks, the top PLA biopolymer manufacturer globally, are ready to expand investment in the biochemical sector following the BOI’s investment promotion approval of NatureWorks.”

“Cargill is excited to take this next step with GC to support the expansion of NatureWorks through its second production facility,” continued Colleen May, president of Cargill Bioindustrial. “This marks an important milestone in our continued efforts to invest in sustainable solutions for bioindustrial customers around the world.”

Construction of the new manufacturing complex to be located at the Nakhon Sawan Biocomplex (NBC) in Nakhon Sawan Province will begin in the second quarter of 2022. With an expected opening in 2024, the facility will have an annual capacity of 75,000 tons of Ingeo biopolymer and produce the full portfolio of Ingeo grades.

Following this shareholder approval, NatureWorks has also selected engineering partners for the next project phase. Jacobs previously provided the front-end engineering design for the new manufacturing site and will now complete final detailed engineering for the project. Additionally, IAG, has been chosen to partner with NatureWorks on engineering and construction, providing project management, project controls, and procurement services. Both companies were chosen due to their expertise in executing large global capital projects.

In 2002, NatureWorks became the first company to produce PLA biopolymers at commercial scale. In 2013, NatureWorks expanded its flagship Blair, Neb., facility to an annual total capacity of 150,000 metric tons, making it the largest PLA manufacturing plant in the world. NatureWorks also announced a capacity expansion in 2020 at its Blair facility to further increase the availability of Ingeo biopolymers.

The expanded global production of Ingeo biopolymers will support growth in markets including 3D printing and hygiene as well as compostable coffee capsules, tea bags, flexible packaging, and food serviceware that demand sustainable, low-carbon materials and require the high-performance attributes that Ingeo is uniquely suited to deliver.

Posted August 9, 2021

Source: NatureWorks

NILIT® Unveils “Making Nylon Sustainable,” The Company’s Corporate Sustainability Report

MIGDAL HAEMEK, Israel — August 9, 2021 — NILIT — the global supplier of nylon 6,6 for apparel, and owner of the SENSIL® sustainable brand — is proud to announce the publication of its sustainability report covering the period 2017-2020. The document, entitled “Making Nylon Sustainable,” details the company’s significant achievements to improve its environmental footprint as well as its plans to positively influence the textile and apparel industry to choose more sustainable products and use them in more responsible ways.

“Sustainability is a core value at NILIT,” said Ilan Melamed, general manager. “We are dedicated to providing the most consumer-relevant, highest quality, and most sustainable premium Nylon 6.6 products to the apparel market. To attain this goal, we continually invest in operations and product development, leveraging our partnerships throughout the supply chain. ‘Making Nylon Sustainable’ captures our vision and our commitment to environmental and social responsibility, and we are very pleased to make this public statement.”

“Making Nylon Sustainable” shares NILIT’s accomplishments as well as the company’s ongoing plans to continuously improve the ecological and social influence of its operations and practices in the market and in the communities where the company operates. Through collaboration with brands, retailers, customers, employees, and vendors, NILIT has developed the largest portfolio of sustainable premium nylon 6,6 products under its SENSIL consumer brand. The SENSIL portfolio includes performance products that directly address the apparel industry’s most pressing environmental issues, such as water and energy consumption, waste reduction, use of recycled inputs, and impact to ecosystems.

Also, NILIT has been applauded for its many sustainability achievements in its facilities around the world, especially its innovations in clean energy cogeneration that reduced carbon dioxide by 40 percent and eliminated emissions of toxic gases. In addition, the NILIT Total Product Sustainability program ensures that all NILIT products meet stringent criteria for responsible production. The company also introduced QR Codes in all SENSIL hangtags. Produced with FSC paper and distributed on certified garments from brands worldwide, these hangtags guarantee authenticity and provide more information to consumers about the technologies and benefits of premium Nylon.

“Our industry’s journey toward sustainability relies on creativity, commitment, and partnership,” Melamed continued. “Our vision is to be the world’s most innovative and sustainable Nylon producer, creating solutions that transform businesses as well as lives. By publishing this report, we openly share this idea with all our stakeholders and invite our industry colleagues to join us in this crucial endeavor.”

Learn more about NILIT’s commitment to a more sustainable apparel industry by downloading “Making Nylon Sustainable” at www.nilit.com/sustainability/#sustainability-policy.

Posted August 9, 2021

Source: NILIT

Target Introduces The Fall Designer Collection Featuring Four Rising Forces In Fashion

MINNEAPOLIS — August 9, 2021 — Target Corp. today announced The Fall Designer Collection, featuring four limited-time-only design partners: Rachel Comey, Victor Glemaud, Sandy Liang and Nili Lotan. Representing each designer’s signature aesthetic, The Fall Designer Collection features more than 180 modern and classic fall wardrobe essentials, ranging in price from $15-$80, with most items under $50.

“For the past 20 years, our guests have continued to express excitement when we introduce them to new and emerging designers from across the globe, all at an incredible value,” says Jill Sando, executive vice president and chief merchandising officer, Target. “This fall, we’re building upon that legacy and bringing together four dynamic and highly-regarded designers to introduce a collection of inclusive, on-trend and timeless fashion staples to re-energize guests’ wardrobes for the fall season.”

The Fall Designer Collection features modern and versatile designs that will endure season after season and reflects Target’s commitment to inclusivity, ranging in size from XXS-4X. The collection will be available on Target.com and in select Target stores this September, as well as via Target’s contactless same-day pickup options, including Drive Up and Order Pickup.

The Designers

Rachel Comey launched her eponymous brand in 2001 with a menswear line and following its success, launched a womenswear line in 2004. Her collections are known for their elements of understated, everyday glamour featuring sculptural silhouettes and playful details.

“This Fall marks the twenty-year anniversary of my brand, Rachel Comey. We are proud to have grown from a New York-based company to a global one, and are thrilled to introduce our designs to an even wider audience through this partnership with Target. The collection is filled with easy, wearable styles that work for all lifestyles, which aligns perfectly with our mission and this celebratory milestone,” says Rachel Comey.

Rachel Comey for Target features casual and approachable styles designed with elements of surprise that come in the form of unexpected fabric and silhouette pairings, such as sweater pants, denim handbags and leather blouses.

Victor Glemaud is a designer from New York. He launched his eponymous collection in 2006 focused on bold and bright statement knitwear and was named a finalist for the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA)/Vogue Fashion Fund in 2017.

“Working with Target on this collection has been a highlight of my career. I always aim to make designs that are celebratory, fun and encourage all people, no matter their race, size or gender, to embrace who they are. I hope that every guest who shops at Target is able to find a piece in my collection that makes them feel the most like themselves,” says Victor Glemaud.

Victor Glemaud for Target features multicolored stripes and color blocking with thoughtful details to create vibrancy within everyday versatile pieces designed for all people.

Sandy Liang’s ready-to-wear collections, the first of which was created in 2014, are rooted in outerwear and feature elevated detailing and fabrics.

“My brand is inspired by nostalgic moments from my childhood, and when the opportunity to collaborate with Target on a fall fashion collection came about, I knew it was the perfect fit as I’ve always admired their collaborations. I’m thrilled to be able to bring my designs to such a broad audience and hope that they encourage Target’s guests to have fun with their fashion and not take themselves too seriously,” Liang said.

With a sweet-meets-sporty approach, Sandy Liang for Target boasts effortlessly cool and confident designs that offer versatility and are both comfortable and fun at the same time — including smocked dresses and patchwork fleece.

Nili Lotan is a New York City-based designer. Following decades of experience working for major designers in the fashion industry, Lotan launched her namesake fashion brand in 2003 — a wardrobe of luxurious, chic, and timeless pieces for today’s woman.

“I’ve always believed that the clothes you wear tell a complex story of who you are as an individual. Your clothes should give you the strength and confidence to run your life. I’m incredibly excited to have the opportunity to work with Target to bring a collection of fashion staples to a wider audience than ever before,” says Nili Lotan.

Nili Lotan for Target reflects a sophisticated, minimalist aesthetic inspired by European simplicity met with ’70s Americana — including pieces like jumpsuits, slip dresses and outerwear.

Posted August 9, 2021

Source: Target Corp.

H&M Reveals New Launch Date For Collaboration With Celebrated Indian Designer Sabyasachi

NEW YORK CITY  — August 9, 2021 — H&M is proud to launch its collaboration with the iconic Indian designer, Sabyasachi, known for his passion for juxtaposing traditional Indian style with contemporary design. The collection is eclectic, bohemian, and takes cues from India’s rich textile and craft history by mixing modern and traditional silhouettes with fresh colors and prints.  The Sabyasachi x H&M collection consists of both womenswear and menswear. Womenswear will be available in select H&M stores and HM.com, and menswear will be available on HM.com, beginning August 12, 2021.

“I am happy to announce the new launch date for the collaboration with H&M, as it gives us the opportunity to spread the Sabyasachi aesthetic to a wider audience in India and worldwide. Due to the complexities of the Covid-19 situation, we had to put the launch on hold but I’m eagerly looking forward to bringing this ready-to-wear collection that will bring relaxed sophistication to everyday life in an understated yet glamorous style,” says Sabyasachi.

The Sabyasachi x H&M collection consists of both womenswear and menswear and is the perfect modern statement for glamorous loungewear for fashion lovers who want a chic yet eclectic ensemble. For women, key pieces include long flowy dresses and kaftans to be worn in layers and mixed with accessories. For men, a Henley shirt, high waist wide chinos and a photographer jacket are key pieces. Finely crafted accessories and shoes accentuate the full looks. Another key highlight of the collection is the Indian textile and print traditions brought to life by the Sabyasachi Art Foundation with meticulously crafted vintage block prints and multicolor silhouettes.

“At H&M, we are thrilled to be able to announce the new date for our collaboration with iconic Indian designer Sabyasachi. At a time like this, we believe people value the use of homegrown crafts and textiles more than ever and that’s something no one can do better than Sabyasachi.  We look forward to taking this stunning collection to as many people across the global as we can,” Maria Gemzell, head of New Development, H&M.

The Sabyasachi x H&M collection will be available in selected H&M stores and online on HM.com beginning August 12, 2021.

Posted August 9, 2021

Source: H&M

Acteev® To Launch Performance Textiles At 2021 Outdoor Retailer Summer Expo

HOUSTON — August 9, 2021 — Acteev will launch its performance textiles line at the 2021 Outdoor Retailer Expo, giving prospective brand and manufacturing partners the opportunity to experience the unique technology hands-on.

“Attendees can see and touch our fabrics and sample garments and experience how our materials are luxuriously soft on the skin yet rugged enough for tough outdoors conditions,” said Joey Barbaree, global segment leader for Acteev. “As more and more brands work to create sustainable, premium products with the latest in antimicrobial innovation to keep their garments and gear odor-free and safe from mildew, our textiles can help give customers confidence their clothing and equipment are protected.”

Proud recipient of a 2021 Outdoor Retailer Innovation Award, Acteev locks in the environmentally safe antimicrobial protection of zinc ions within superior nylon 6,6, creating yarns and fabrics that naturally combat odor- and mildew-causing bacteria, mold and fungi. The technology protects textiles — from base layers and outerwear to sleeping bags and more — using one of nature’s own elements.

Plus, unlike chemical applications that are coated or sprayed on, Acteev does not rely on any post-production treatment or after-market process. Instead, Acteev’s zinc ions are embedded directly into the matrix of the molecule, providing protection throughout the life of the product. This means Acteev Performance Textiles require less water in the manufacturing process while ensuring they remain as effective as day one.

Posted August 9, 2021

Source: Ascend Performance Materials

NRF: Business Groups File Amicus Brief Calling USTR Tariffs Process ‘Flawed’

WASHINGTON — August 9, 2021 — The National Retail Federation, the Retail Litigation Center, the American Apparel & Footwear Association, the Consumer Technology Association, the Footwear Distributors and Retailers of America, the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association and the Toy Association today filed a “friend of the court” amicus brief in the U.S. Court of International Trade. The trade groups submitted the brief in support of businesses and their workers that have been negatively impacted by a series of escalating tariffs covering virtually all Chinese imports to the United States imposed by the United States Trade Representative (USTR).

In 2018, following a Section 301 investigation into China’s trade practices regarding forced technology transfer and intellectual property rights protection, the Trump Administration initiated several massive tariffs against Chinese imports. Thousands of American businesses have been forced to pay these taxes to import Chinese goods and products, which ultimately result in higher prices for U.S. consumers. The Biden Administration has kept these tariffs in place when American businesses are doing their best to safely serve customers, and keep workers on their payrolls, during the pandemic.

In September 2020, more than 6,000 plaintiffs filed lawsuits challenging the List 3 and List 4A tariffs as unlawful under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 arguing that the USTR exceeded its authority when it imposed tariffs without attempting to connect them to any underlying investigation of China’s trade practices. The amicus brief supports the plaintiffs’ arguments and highlights USTR’s violation of its statutory obligations under the Administrative Procedure Act by failing to give adequate opportunity for, or consideration of, public comments.

The staggering scale and far-reaching effects of the proposed tariffs required USTR to take a thoughtful approach consistent with its statutory obligation under the Administrative Procedure Act. Instead, USTR imposed compressed public-comment timelines, which often gave businesses only a few days to analyze the impacts on supply chains and retail operations and develop thoughtful comments. To make matters worse, despite receiving nearly 10,000 comments and pieces of testimony, the overwhelming majority of which opposed the tariffs, USTR refused to respond to any of the identified concerns.

According to the amicus brief:

“Those proposed tariffs implicated hundreds of billions of dollars of imports and impacted almost every facet of the U.S. economy.  Many stakeholders, including amici’s members must plan out their international supply chains and delivery schedules months in advance. Not surprisingly, these businesses needed time to review the hundreds of thousands of products they sell to evaluate the availability and feasibility of alternative non-Chinese sources and to assess impacts on supply chains and retail operations.”

“If USTR had satisfied its obligation to allow for meaningful comments from amici and others and had actually considered them, it would have recognized the considerable harm its actions would inflict.  The tariffs are a hidden tax on U.S. consumers, hurting domestic producers, retailers, and customers alike.  And, as predicted, they have had a significant adverse impact on the U.S. economy.”

The amicus brief was written by Joseph R. Palmore and Adam L. Sorensen of Morrison & Foerster LLP. To view the amicus brief in its entirety, click here.

Posted August 9, 2021

Source: The National Retail Federation(NRF)

Virginia Governor Northam Announces Composite Manufacturer to Expand in Frederick County, Creating 84 New Jobs

RICHMOND — August 6, 2021 — Governor Ralph Northam today announced that Evolve Services Inc., a producer of composite productions and reproductions, will invest $1.25 million to expand its operation in Frederick County. The company will enlarge the plant by adding a second production line, tripling its facility space, and increasing production for its major customers, which include 84 Lumber, Lansing Building Products, ABC Supply, BFS, and Home Depot. The project will create 84 new jobs.

“Evolve Services is a key employer in Frederick County, and we are pleased to support the growth of another manufacturer reinvesting in the Commonwealth,” Governor Northam said. “This expansion is further evidence of the Shenandoah Valley’s ability to attract and retain businesses with its infrastructure, workforce, and livability.”

Founded in 2013, Evolve Services is one of the most prominent specialty composite manufacturers in the United States with its products displayed throughout the world. Its network of companies includes Evolve Stone, Evolve Play, and Createk by Evolve Custom. As the company has grown, it has expanded its services beyond nature-related composites to include the re-creation of virtually any object. The company is expanding its Evolve Stone line that is the world’s first artificial stone that is face nailed, making installation fast, intuitive, and easy, which is helping to solve some of the skilled labor shortages in the construction industry.

“Small businesses are the cornerstone of a thriving economy, and we celebrate Evolve Services’ continued success and the addition of 84 new jobs in Frederick County,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Brian Ball. “The company has experienced impressive growth since its founding eight years ago, and we are excited to see Evolve already tripling its facility size and adding production lines.”

“Evolve chose Virginia as its home because of its business-friendly environment, access to a diverse workforce, and small business support network,” said Evolve Services CEO Greg Fritz. “Virginia is the complete package for doing business.”

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Frederick County to secure the project for Virginia and will support Evolve Services’ job creation through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program (VJIP), which provides consultative services and funding to companies creating new jobs in order to support employee recruitment and training activities. As a business incentive supporting economic development, VJIP reduces the human resource costs of new and expanding companies. VJIP is state-funded, demonstrating Virginia’s commitment to enhancing job opportunities for citizens.

“We are excited for Evolve Services’ continued growth in Frederick County,” said Charles S. DeHaven Jr., chairman of the Frederick County Board of Supervisors. “Evolve’s decision to increase capacity at its Frederick County facility is a testament to our community’s workforce and business environment, and reinforces the Commonwealth’s position as a top state for business. This project elevates our local economy and further expands the County’s largest employment sector, advanced manufacturing.”

“Evolve Services’ expansion marks a significant investment in our region and speaks to the great economic development partnerships Virginia offers,” said Senator Jill Vogel. “We are excited for this outstanding company to expand in Frederick County, creating quality jobs and economic revenue.”

“These are the type of announcements we look forward to hearing more about for our area,” said Delegate Bill Wiley. “Congratulations to Evolve on being a valued member of the business community here in the Shenandoah Valley. It is important that we continue to promote opportunities like this one to better our community, offer job opportunities, and keep taxes low.”

Posted August 6, 2021

Source: Virginia Office of the Governor

Champion® Athleticwear Unveils Second Capsule In Muhammad Ali Collection

WINSTON SALEM, N.C. — August 6, 2021 — Champion, makers of authentic athletic apparel since 1919, and Muhammad Ali Enterprises, today dropped the second, limited-edition capsule in Champion’s Muhammad Ali Collection. The capsule’s new designs and fresh colors are fabricated to evoke the ethos of the sports legend during his inspirational gold medal win during the 1960 Games in Rome as an 18-year-old.

With details based on the 1960 Games historic location and team uniforms, the apparel features unique athletic accents, iconic silhouettes, luxe fabrics and voluminous draping. The men’s and women’s collections, which retail from $35-$125 in the United States, spans sizes XS-2XL and includes Reverse Weave® hoodies, quarter-zip pullovers, joggers, shorts, graphic T-shirts, crop tops, bike shorts, hats and special satin boxing robe. The pieces have legendary quotes from Ali, including “I am the greatest, I said that even before I knew I was,” along with Games-inspired brand decals.

“Muhammad Ali was an artist in the ring and a champion of the people outside of it, inspiring his fans across the globe to be their very best,” said Jon Ram, group president of global activewear for HanesBrands. “The second drop in this collection allows everyone from professional athletes to backyard sports enthusiasts and culture curators to truly be their own Champion by finding the joy in dressing for self-expression and feeling confident while being comfortable.”

The second drop in brand’s multi-year partnership with Muhammad Ali Enterprises, owned by Authentic Brands Group (ABG) in conjunction with Lonnie Ali, a trustee of the Muhammad Ali Family Trust (MAFT), includes global integration across Champion’s brand platforms. The collection is being distributed via Champion.com and Champion retail stores with distribution in the United States, Europe, Asia, Mexico and South America. A third drop is scheduled for later this year to be followed by additional capsules in 2022.

“Ali would say: ‘Champions aren’t made in gyms, champions are made from something they have deep inside them — a desire, a dream, a vision,’” said Katie Jones, senior vice president, entertainment, ABG. “This partnership continues to honor what was most important to Ali during his lifetime.”

To celebrate the second drop of the Muhammad Ali Collection, Champion will be making a donation to the Louisville, Ky.-based Muhammad Ali Center, a non-profit museum and cultural center dedicated to honoring the man that meant so much to so many.

Posted August 6, 2021

Source: HanesBrands 

Montana Start-Up Company Revolutionizes Heated Gear: Launches Line Of Apparel That Provides Warmth And Comfortable Mobility

GREAT FALLS, Mont. — August 6, 2021 — H.E.A.T. — Heated Electronic Active Technology — a new start-up company based in Great Falls, Mont., officially launched a new line of technologically-advanced heated gear that’s expected to turn the winter apparel industry on its head.

“We didn’t set out to improve upon other or existing base layer apparel. We created a first-of-its-kind, vital body equipment you wear,” said Daniel Creach, H.E.A.T.’s ONE-LAYER designer.

Combining the most advanced and comfortable textiles, smartphone technology, and custom, ergonomically correct batteries. H.E.A.T.’s One-Layer smart system will finally give people who work or play outdoors in winter the protection they need from the cold — and the comfort and maneuverability to do their tasks safely.

“No more dangling cables to manage or layers and layers of clothing confining your movement,” Creach said. “All you have to do is use the One-Layer® app on any smart device to manage your own personal climate. From the use of FabRoc™, a proprietary heat technology, to the attention of every manufacturing detail, the One-Layer smart system will allow you to work safer, play longer, and go where the other guys can’t.”

H.E.A.T., Inc. was formed in 2016 with the goal of creating heated gear that effectively warms key parts of the body while also providing its wearers greater flexibility and movement than what’s currently on the market. The ONE-LAYER design and development team consists of experts with vast experience from iconic U.S. companies as well as the private sector.

Posted August 6, 2021

Source: H.E.A.T. (Heated Electronic Active Technology)

NRF: Retail Cargo Expected To Set Record In August As Merchants Move From Back-To-School To Holiday Preparations

SAN FRANCISCO — August 6, 2021 — Imports at the nation’s largest retail container ports should hit yet another record in August as consumer demand continues to stretch supply chains and retailers shift from the back-to-school season to the peak shipping season for winter holiday merchandise, according to the monthly Global Port Tracker report released today by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates.

“Back-to-school supplies have been hit by the same supply chain disruptions and port congestion that have affected other products this year, but retailers are working hard to ensure that school and college goods are where they need to be,” NRF Vice President for Supply Chain and Customs Policy Jonathan Gold said. “Strong consumer demand has outpaced supply chain operations since late last year and could remain a challenge as the holidays approach. The continuing lack of labor, equipment and capacity has highlighted systemic issues and the need to create a truly 21st century supply chain to ensure resiliency against the next major disruption. Passage of infrastructure legislation currently pending in Congress is a key step in that direction. We need continued focus by the administration to help address these issues as well.”

“The strain of the continuing economic expansion is putting considerable pressure on the logistics supply chain,” Hackett Associates Founder Ben Hackett said. “We’re seeing a lack of shipping capacity combined with port congestion as vessels line up to discharge goods from both Asia and Europe. Delays are stretching to landside as port terminals struggle with space shortages, and labor challenges are affecting ports, railroads and trucking companies alike. This part of the recovery is not a pretty sight.”

U.S. ports covered by Global Port Tracker handled 2.15 million Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units in June, the latest month for which final numbers are available. That was down 7.8 percent from May but up 33.7 percent from a year earlier, when many stores were closed because of the pandemic. A TEU is one 20-foot container or its equivalent.

Ports have not reported July numbers yet, but Global Port Tracker projected the month at 2.22 million TEU, which would be up 15.7 percent from the same time last year.

August is forecast at 2.37 million TEU, which would be up 12.6 percent year-over-year and top May’s 2.33 million TEU for the largest number of containers imported during a single month since NRF began tracking imports in 2002. August is the beginning of the “peak season” when retailers stock up on holiday merchandise each year. Many retailers are moving up their shipments this year as part of their risk mitigation strategies to ensure that sufficient inventory will be available during the holidays.

September is forecast at 2.21 million TEU, up 4.9 percent year-over-year; October at 2.15 million TEU, down 3 percent for the first year-over-year decline since July 2020; November at 2.07 million TEU, down 1.5 percent, and December at 2.02 million TEU, down 4.1 percent.

The first half of 2021 totaled 12.8 million TEU, up 35.6 percent from the same period last year. For the full year, 2021 is on track to total 25.9 million TEU, up 17.5 percent over 2020 and a new annual record topping last year’s 22 million. Cargo imports during 2020 were up 1.9 percent over 2019 despite the pandemic.

Global Port Tracker, which is produced for NRF by Hackett Associates, provides historical data and forecasts for the U.S. ports of Los Angeles/Long Beach, Oakland, Seattle and Tacoma on the West Coast; New York/New Jersey, Port of Virginia, Charleston, Savannah, Port Everglades, Miami and Jacksonville on the East Coast, and Houston on the Gulf Coast. The report is free to NRF retail members, and subscription information is available at NRF.com/PortTracker or Subscription information for non-members can be found at www.globalporttracker.com

Posted August 6, 2021

Source: The National Retail Federation (NRF)

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