US Manufacturing Expands in September Despite Supply Chain Strains

US Manufacturing Expands in September Despite Supply Chain Strains

The September ISM Manufacturing Report indicates continued growth in the US manufacturing sector despite ongoing supply chain challenges, with a PMI of 61.1. New orders remain strong, but production is constrained by raw material shortages. Employment is rebounding. Supply chain bottlenecks persist, leading to price increases. Experts anticipate these issues will continue, but also present opportunities. Businesses need to proactively address these challenges to navigate the current economic landscape and maintain growth.

US Manufacturing Grows in September Amid Supply Chain Challenges

US Manufacturing Grows in September Amid Supply Chain Challenges

The US Manufacturing PMI registered 55.4 in September, according to the Institute for Supply Management (ISM), marking the fourth consecutive month of expansion but slightly lower than August. The New Orders Index decreased but remained in growth territory. Supplier deliveries continued to slow down, and inventory contraction eased. ISM members indicated that COVID-19 and business growth were key themes, expressing concern about the absence of future economic stimulus policies. The report suggests continued growth in the manufacturing sector, albeit at a slightly slower pace than the previous month.

Firms Boost Supply Chain Efficiency with Inventory Tech Investments

Firms Boost Supply Chain Efficiency with Inventory Tech Investments

An MHI report indicates that 54% of companies plan to increase investments in inventory and network optimization technologies to address demand volatility and supply chain challenges caused by the pandemic. By leveraging predictive analytics, inventory visibility, and other tools, businesses are optimizing their supply chain management to enhance resilience against uncertainty and ensure business continuity. This proactive approach enables companies to better forecast demand, manage inventory levels, and streamline operations, ultimately improving their ability to navigate disruptions and maintain a competitive edge.

Nextgen Supply Chain Awards Honor AI and Robotics Innovators

Nextgen Supply Chain Awards Honor AI and Robotics Innovators

Quickcode.ai, Easy Metrics, and Corvus Robotics have won the 2025 NextGen Supply Chain Awards, representing AI, digitalization, and robotics technologies respectively. These companies are empowering smarter and more efficient supply chains through their innovative solutions. The awards highlight the crucial role of technology in driving supply chain innovation and optimizing logistics operations for enhanced performance and resilience in the rapidly evolving global market. They showcase the future of supply chain management, driven by cutting-edge technologies.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Midsized CPG Firms Gain From Doles Supply Chain Upgrades

Midsized CPG Firms Gain From Doles Supply Chain Upgrades

Dole executives will share their supply chain transformation experience at the 2025 NextGen Supply Chain Conference, highlighting how strategic investments in flexible manufacturing, streamlined logistics, and data-driven demand forecasting enable rapid commercialization of new products while maintaining efficiency and quality at scale. Dole's experience offers valuable lessons for mid-sized CPG companies, emphasizing the importance of clear strategic goals, investing in key technologies, building a data culture, and continuous improvement. This approach allows for agility and responsiveness in a dynamic market.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Dole to Reveal Supply Chain Strategy at 2025 Conference

Dole to Reveal Supply Chain Strategy at 2025 Conference

Dole executives will share their supply chain transformation experience at the 2025 NextGen Supply Chain Conference, highlighting how they are turning their supply chain into an engine for growth and innovation through investments in flexible manufacturing, streamlined logistics, and data-driven demand forecasting. Dole's case offers valuable insights for mid-sized CPG companies, demonstrating how strategic supply chain management can lead to success in a competitive market. They'll discuss key strategies and lessons learned throughout their journey, providing practical advice for others looking to modernize their operations.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Retail Ceos Blame Supply Chain Issues for Omnichannel Challenges

Retail Ceos Blame Supply Chain Issues for Omnichannel Challenges

A recent survey reveals that 83% of retail CEOs believe their supply chains are unprepared for the challenges of omnichannel retail. Optimizing the supply chain is crucial, requiring a departure from traditional thinking and increased investment to succeed in the future. Companies must modernize their supply chain infrastructure and adopt innovative strategies to meet the evolving demands of omnichannel commerce and maintain a competitive edge. Ignoring these challenges will leave retailers vulnerable in the rapidly changing market landscape.

Ford CEVA Extend Partnership to Boost Auto Supply Chain

Ford CEVA Extend Partnership to Boost Auto Supply Chain

CEVA Logistics has renewed and expanded its partnership with Ford Motor Company, continuing to provide services to Ford's Kansas City Assembly Plant. These services include inbound material sequencing, small lot logistics, returnable container management, and Just-in-Time transportation. This expanded collaboration will see CEVA investing in facilities and creating new jobs, ultimately supporting Ford's increased production capacity. This renewal reflects the growing demand for efficient logistics services within the automotive industry.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Retailers Adopt Collaborative Supply Chain Strategies at RILA Event

Retailers Adopt Collaborative Supply Chain Strategies at RILA Event

The RILA Conference highlighted the challenges facing retail supply chains, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between shippers and carriers, and among shippers themselves. Building intelligent supply chains through optimized capacity, reduced costs, improved efficiency, and enhanced resilience is key to addressing these challenges. Embracing collaborative partnerships is a crucial strategic choice for retail companies to remain competitive in the future. This collaborative approach enables better visibility, agility, and responsiveness to dynamic market demands, ultimately leading to improved customer satisfaction and profitability.

Fedex Buys Routesmart to Boost Delivery Efficiency

Fedex Buys Routesmart to Boost Delivery Efficiency

FedEx has announced the acquisition of RouteSmart Technologies to enhance logistics efficiency through RouteSmart's route optimization solutions. This acquisition is based on a long-term strategic partnership between the two companies and aims to accelerate FedEx's transition to an intelligent supply chain to better serve its customers.

08/04/2025 Logistics
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