According to the National Retail Federation (NRF) annual consumer survey, spending on Mother’s Day is expected to be the second highest in the survey’s history, following last year’s record $35.7 billion. At an expected $33.5 billion, spending could be around 6% lower than last year, with 84% of U.S. adults expected to celebrate the holiday.…
According to the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI), domestic raw steel production was 1,716,000 net tons, while the capability utilization rate was 77.3% for the week ending April 20. Compared to last year’s period, when production was 1,769,000 net tons at 78.6% utilization, raw steel production is 3% lower year-over-year (y/y). Production for the…
As was the case with Valentine’s Day, when truckloads started moving two weeks prior, this week is the peak shipping week for flowers ahead of Mother’s Day. Most activities center in Miami, just 3.5 hours of flying time from where most Mother’s Day roses and carnations are grown. According to the USDA, in 2023, 63%…
The contract freight market, a key indicator of the industry’s health, continues to soften despite last month’s slight increase in the American Trucking Association’s (ATA) advanced seasonally adjusted (SA) For-Hire Truck Tonnage Index. The ATAs tonnage index, which includes truckload and LTL freight, is dominated by contract freight with minimal spot market loads. Compared to…