Manufacturing in the United States increased at its highest rate in seven months, according to the Institute for Supply Management’s purchasing managers index (PMI), reports Bloomberg News. The PMI, which rose to 57 from 56.6 in November, indicates growth when it reads over 50. Bloomberg points to increased spending by American consumers and business investment helping to drive production as the largest drivers of growth.

The US figures followed news that manufacturing in Europe also expanded more than initially estimated in December. Additionally, according to a recent US Commerce Department report, construction spending rose for the third straight month in November, helped in part by federal government projects. “The factory sector is growing at a brisk pace, and it’s getting fueled by both US demand and growth in exports,” says Mike Englund, chief economist at Action Economics, adding that manufacturing is aiding economic recovery.

Factories in the United States reported faster rates of orders and production. Further gains in manufacturing may be aided by increases in consumer spending, which makes up about 70 percent of the US economy. In the Far East, however, China’s manufacturing growth slowed in December, in part due to tight monetary policies. China’s PMI, which rose for the preceding seven months, fell in November. 

TO our Bedding Industry Clients: - as many of you have seen and already received response from OHM for a next step, OHM has developed a design and process to accommodate this new requirement should it not be halted before the November 12, 2008 requirements date. Further to this we understand on Oct 2, 2008 there will be a special meeting held with the CPSC and they will be trying to stop this ruling to be applied to the bedding industry. Should the efforts and time not meet the date prior to the requirement OHM will move forward with a full plan to assist the OHM bedding clients. Under the OHM Warranty, Enhancement and Support Plan OHM will provide this industry update at NO ADDITIONAL software charge. Another great way your OHM investment is protected and value added.

Senate passes it's version of the CPSC Reform Act H.R. 4040.  The bill contains several provisions that remain of concern to the industry.

For more details Click Here

DETROIT -(Dow Jones)- ArvinMeritor Inc. (ARM) became the first auto parts maker to publicly announce that it will slap surcharges on all of its product orders to offset rising costs for steel and other commodities.
The surcharge, which varies depending on the type of raw materials needed to build a specific part, starts June 1, the Troy, Mich., company announced Tuesday. The company will also initiate a monthly review and adjust prices accordingly.

To See the full story Click Here