Las Vegas NV Blog

From cottage cheese to “newstalgic” dining experiences, these are the latest food and dining trends to look out for this year

CHARLOTTE, N.C., Sept. 3, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — As food preferences continue to shift, college campuses are at the forefront of embracing new and exciting trends that cater to the evolving tastes of students. Chartwells Higher Education, a recognized leader in contract food management, has once again identified the top five food trends for the upcoming fall semester that are set to make waves in campus dining.

“Our culinary teams are deeply in tune with the latest trends and student preferences, ensuring that what’s on our menus aren’t just meals but experiences that satisfy the cravings of today’s college students,” said Joe Labombarda, Senior Vice President of Culinary at Chartwells Higher Education. “This year, we’re excited to introduce fresh flavors, innovative ingredients, and new dining experiences that are as unique as the students we serve.”

Here are the top five trends for the 2024 fall semester according to Chartwells Higher Education’s culinary experts:

1. Cottage Cheese: The Versatile Protein Powerhouse. Cottage cheese is making a comeback as a versatile protein source, finding its way into a variety of dishes from breakfast bowls to queso dips. Its high protein content and adaptability make it a go-to option for students looking to fuel their day. Chartwells’ test kitchen is experimenting with several related recipes to deploy on campuses this year, including a homemade high-protein ranch dip and hearty cottage cheese wraps.
2. Chamoy Pickle: Sweet and Spicy’s Rise Exemplified. The Chamoy pickle has been a shining example of the growing affinity for unique sweet and spicy flavor combinations on social media. This tangy, spicy, and slightly sweet treat has become a viral favorite on TikTok this year, reflecting a broader trend of bold and adventurous taste profiles and special international cuisines. Inspired by the success of Mango Chamoy Ice Pops at the University of Miami, look out for more colorful Chamoy creations nationwide this year.
3. Newstalgic Dining: A Fresh Take on Nostalgia. Nostalgia continues to play a significant role in food trends but with a modern twist. “Newstalgia” dining brings a fresh perspective to classic foods by tapping into the emotional connections we have with food and blending the familiar with innovative ingredients and experiences. Chartwells’ first-of-its-kind Supper Club dining experience, debuting at select campuses this fall, was created as a direct response to this desire for newstalgia, which is especially pronounced among today’s Gen Z students.
4. Miso: The Flavorful Fermented Ingredient. Miso, the traditional Japanese fermented soybean paste, is gaining popularity as a flavorful and versatile ingredient in campus dining. From soups and dressings to marinades and desserts, miso adds a unique depth that enhances a wide range of dishes. At some campuses, students can expect to see dishes like Miso Spiced Caramel Pork Skewers, Sriracha Turkey Miso Burgers, Miso Bacon Udon Noodles, and Matcha Miso Caramel Cookies at campuses nationwide this fall.
5. Indulgence Redefined: Rich and Unexpected Flavors Take Charge. Full-bodied, delicious dishes with a creative flair are a new fan favorite. At Baylor University, the “Now Trending” dining station will offer a variety of different indulgent recipes each week. Ranging from sweet to spicy, students can enjoy menu items like Butter Chicken Poutine, Chamoy Dipped Watermelon, Crispy Bulgogi Scallion Pancake Burritos, Chinese Candied Fruit, and Japanese Pancakes with Matcha Jam.

“Our latest survey of over 72,000 students shows protein and international flavors are among the top priorities for today’s college students,” said Chef Sarah Bodner, Research and Development Executive Chef at Chartwells Higher Education. “Foods like cottage cheese offer students a versatile, high-protein option that can easily be incorporated into different dishes throughout the day. Similarly, the popularity of Chamoy pickles highlights a growing interest in bold, sweet, and spicy flavor combinations that resonate with Gen Z’s adventurous palate. These trends reflect a shift toward more personalized, global, and health-conscious dining experiences that are key to engaging younger palates.”

Chartwells Higher Education continues to innovate and adapt to the ever-changing preferences of college students and deliver dining programs that enhance the campus experience. To learn more, please visit http://chartwellshighered.com.

About Chartwells Higher Education
Chartwells is the recognized leader in contract food service management, hospitality, and guest service at over 300 colleges and universities in the United States. Chartwells is re-inventing the on-campus dining experience by investing in high-tech, food-infused social spaces that bring students and people together to promote meaningful relationships and interactions. The company’s excellence in culinary, nutrition, technology, and sustainability brings truly unique dining experiences to every campus. Learn more about how Chartwells is creating joy in campus dining and preparing students for success at www.ChartwellsHigherEd.com, www.DineonCampus.com.

Media Contact
Meredith Rosenberg
[email protected]

SOURCE Chartwells Higher Education

Premier Flight and Aviation-Themed Trampoline Park Unites Communities Nationwide to Raise Funds and Awareness in September

SPRINGFIELD, Va., Sept. 3, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Flight Adventure Park is the nation’s premier flight and aviation-themed trampoline park and is returning with its annual ‘Soar For a Cause’ initiative. Throughout September, each Flight Adventure Park location across the U.S. will partner with local organizations dedicated to supporting families affected by childhood cancer and raise critical awareness. ‘Soar for a Cause’ is a month-long effort to make a tangible difference in the lives of children and families.

On Monday, September 9th, 2024, all Flight Adventure Park locations will host a special Fundraiser Day during Open Jump hours (11 a.m. to 8 p.m.). During this event, 20% of ticket proceeds will be donated to local partner organizations when guests mention the organization’s name at check-in. Flight Adventure Park is offering several other ways for guests to contribute in addition to Fundraiser Day:

• Limited-Edition Childhood Cancer Awareness Socks: These exclusive socks will be available for purchase, with all proceeds benefiting each park’s local partner organization.
• ‘I Donated’ Ribbons: Guests can donate any monetary amount and receive a ribbon to write their name on, which will be proudly displayed in the park as a symbol of support.
• Round-Up Program: Guests can round up their purchases or decide to contribute $1, $3, $5, or more, with all contributions going directly to local organizations.

“We are proud to continue our commitment to supporting the communities we serve,” said Steven L. Yeffa, CEO of Flight Adventure Park. “Soar For a Cause is an incredible way for our parks and families to come together in a meaningful way to help those in need. We encourage everyone to join us this September and make a real impact.”

Flight Adventure Park is known for bringing to life imaginative spaces designed to encourage active play, celebration, interactive learning, and the freedom to fly. It features fun and exciting activities like trampolines, dodgeball, climbing structures, air slam basketball, arcades, and more. For more information on participating locations and how you can contribute, please visit flightadventurepark.com.

About Flight Adventure Park
Flight Adventure Park is America’s only space and aviation-themed indoor adventure park and entertainment venue. Guests can unleash their imaginations, explore their physicality, and connect with others through diverse activities and games. Featuring trampolines, lunar courses, dodgeball, climbing structures, and more, Flight Adventure Park has the most comprehensive entertainment venues that cater to all types of audiences. Flight Adventure Park strives to make every visit a once-in-a-lifetime experience, combining adventure, fitness, fun, and interactive learning to nurture an environment where guests can explore new heights. Flight Adventure Park has eight FLIGHT locations across the United States, providing year-round entertainment for parties, events, and everyday play. The company also owns and operates five FLIGHT locations in Canada, branded as iSaute. For more information, visit flightadventurepark.com.

MEDIA CONTACT
Madison Roszko | Carissa Bass
386-872-2616
[email protected]
www.startrco.com 

SOURCE Flight Adventure Park

BENTONVILLE, Ark., Sept. 3, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Come to Bentonville, Arkansas – home of the only Strider Bikes store in the USA – for a fun-filled weekend at the Adventure-Cross Stage Race on Saturday, October 12! Children ages 3 – 6 years old are encouraged to put their Strider skills to the test by running, striding and pedaling through an epic course to the finish line.

The Adventure-Cross Stage Race is for racers that enjoy more than just striding with their boundless energy. When you hear, GO – GO – GO, kids run one lap, then mount their Strider 14x bike in balance mode and “stride” one lap. Next, kids enter the pits to have their crew install the pedal kit, and finally pedal one lap to the finish line. This stage race is a test of endurance using multiple skills, a lot like a Cyclocross race! The stage race is Strider’s second racing event of the season – just weeks after Strider Cup takes place in Rapid City, SD on September 14.

Registration for The Adventure-Cross Stage Race closes October 11 at 11:59 PM CST so sign up now before it’s too late! https://www.striderbikes.com/adventure-cross

Event Schedule:

Friday, October 11 (CST) at Strider Store Bentonville – 109 N. Main. St. Bentonville, AR 72712:

• 5:00 – 7:00 PM – Pack Pickup and Tech Inspection

Saturday, October 12 (CST) at City of Bentonville Slaughter Pen Trails – 2400 N. Walton Blvd. Bentonville, AR 72712

• 1:00 – 3:00 PM – Family Fun Activities
• 1:00 – 2:15 PM – Packet Pickup and Tech Inspection
• 3:00 – 6:00 PM – Strider Adventure-Cross Race (3, 4, 5 and 6-year-olds – 14x Bikes in Balance and Pedal Mode)

*Schedule is subject to change.

To reference the race rules and FAQs, visit StriderBikes.com/Adventure-Cross – If you have any questions, please email [email protected] or call us at (479) 367-2336

ABOUT STRIDER SPORTS INTERNATIONAL, INC.

Strider started with a father’s passion for riding anything with two wheels and a need to share it with his son.

Strider Bikes has been improving and innovating every day since conception. We are the proud owners of the best balance bike on the market with epic accessories to match the huge personality of your kiddo. 

Founded in 2007, in Rapid City, South Dakota, Strider Bikes has sold more than 4 million bikes and is distributed in more than 75 countries. Visit www.StriderBikes.com, Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube. 

Media Contact:

Carissa Chalcraft

605-389-3158

[email protected] 

SOURCE Strider Bikes

This Winter the Largest Lantern Festival Producer in America will Light Up Grand Prairie

DALLAS, Sept. 3, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Tianyu Arts & Culture, Inc.—the leading producer of larger-than-life lantern festivals in North America and the trailblazers who introduced authentic Chinese lantern traditions to the U.S. and Europe—will make their North Texas debut this winter at the festival grounds of Texas Trust CU Theatre, located at 1001 Texas Trust Way, Grand Prairie, TX 75050.

This enchanting event invites visitors to embark on a nighttime adventure following the story of Koda, a 7-year-old boy, as he explores the magical rainforest of Caballococha, Peru. The festival features vibrant displays of plants and animals, infused with elements of magic, inspired by Koda’s dreams and imagination. As guests wander through the dazzling light show, they can piece together Koda’s adventure, capture stunning photographs, uncover clues, and win prizes. The experience includes 19 immersive scenes with larger-than-life lantern sculptures crafted from metal, steel, fabric, and LED lights by skilled artisans.

“We are thrilled to debut in Dallas this holiday season,” said Huiyuan Liu, event manager at Tianyu Arts & Culture. “The Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, with its rich cultural diversity, is the perfect setting for us to showcase our lantern festival in a new, technologically advanced, and visually stunning way.”

This family-friendly event features exquisite artistry and provides the most immersive lantern experience in the metroplex this holiday season. In addition to the spectacular lantern displays, nightly stage performances will feature acrobats and folk performers. Visitors can also enjoy food and beverages and purchase handcrafted souvenirs. The festival will run from November 8, 2024, to January 19, 2025, every Tuesday through Sunday from 5:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., covering all major winter holidays. Tickets for the Tianyu Lights Festival range from $16 to $35. From 09/03 to 10/01, enjoy $5 off General Admission tickets with code TIANYU at checkout. For more details and to purchase tickets, visit https://tianyuculture.us/dallas.

About: 
Tianyu Arts & Culture, Inc. is the American subsidiary of the international design and manufacturing company Sichuan Tianyu Arts & Culture, Inc. is the largest Chinese lantern festival producer in North America and one of the first companies to bring authentic Chinese lantern traditions to the United States and Europe. The Chicago-based corporation is a subsidiary of Sichuan Tianyu Culture Communication Co., Ltd., headquartered in Zigong in the Sichuan Province of China. Tianyu strives for quality by focusing on three core components: conservation and natural beauty, turnkey festival operations, and interactive visitor experiences. In the past 10 years, Tianyu’s team of professionals have produced over 86 festivals in the United States, appearing in 78 cities and welcoming over 8 million visitors. To learn more about Tianyu Arts & Culture, Inc., please visit https://tianyuculture.us/.

Media Contact:
Katie Mudd
[email protected]
214-676-4254

Dana Cobb
[email protected]
972- 955-9747

SOURCE Tianyu

• Introduction of Fuel Insight, Safety Insight, and FlightPulse®
• Could improve fuel efficiency by 1.4% and reduce carbon emissions by 5,916 tons annually 

SEOUL, South Korea, Sept. 3, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Hybrid airline company, Air Premia (CEO Yoo Myung-seop) announced on September 2nd that it has introduced GE Aerospace’s integrated software solution to help reduce carbon emissions and improve operational efficiency and safety.

The integrated systems include three software programs: Fuel Insight, Safety Insight, and the FlightPulse® app.

Fuel Insight uses GE Aerospace’s Event Measurement System (EMS) to identify optimal opportunities to improve fuel efficiency throughout the entire aircraft operation phase. This system can improve fuel efficiency by 1.4% per year, which would reduce carbon emissions by 5,916 tons based on Air Premia’s current operations.

Safety Insight is a service-based software solution that analyzes data received from aircraft to help identify potential risks and enhance the overall safety in operations.

FlightPulse® is a fully configurable, modular Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) software application that provides pilots with data on fuel efficiency and flight safety analyzed by Fuel Insight and Safety Insight directly. Pilots can gain valuable insights from the secure app by understanding fuel impacts and operational changes while becoming more familiar with potential threats and events to enhance flight safety and efficiency.

Haejihn Lim, head of Air Premia’s Flight Operations Engineering team, remarked, “Air Premia is the first airline in South Korea to introduce GE Aerospace’s integrated software solution with FlightPulse®, Safety Insight, and Fuel Insight.” He added, “Introducing this integrated solution will provide key insights to help reduce emissions and drive the airline’s overall sustainability goals.”

About Air Premia

Air Premia, the only long-haul specialized airline in South Korea, operates on the philosophy of being a “beloved airline that provides high-quality services with only the essentials” and offers premium services comparable to full-service carriers (FSCs) at reasonable prices.

Since commencing its first international flights in July 2022, Air Premia has rapidly established itself by flying to destinations such as Los Angeles, New York, Bangkok, and Narita. Notably, it operates long-haul routes that low-cost carriers (LCCs) typically do not cover, all while maintaining a competitive edge in pricing compared to FSCs. This aligns well with the current trend of “value-for-money travel.” Starting from May 17th, 2024, Air Premia also began flights to San Francisco in the United States.

To book your flight or discover more about Air Premia, please visit https://www.airpremia.com/kr/en.

About GE Aerospace

GE Aerospace software solutions put aviation data to work with products and services that empower airlines to run robust and resilient operations. Flight Ops, Tech Ops, and Maintenance and Reliability Analytics solutions from GE Aerospace help aircraft operators enhance safety and efficiency, reduce operational disruptions, improve passenger experience, and make better decisions regarding real-time fleet health. For more information, visit www.GEAerospace.com/systems/saas.

For media inquiries and interview requests, please contact Seungshin Park, Air Premia PR Team Lead, [email protected].

SOURCE Air Premia

“We love offering this Companion Pass promotion because it allows our Members to experience one of the many benefits of our award-winning Rapid Rewards program,” said Jennifer Bridie, Vice President of Marketing at Southwest Airlines. “Earlier this year, we launched Cash + Points, giving our Customers extra flexibility to make their points go further. And now, for the first time, Members can use their Rapid Rewards points, a combination of cash and points, or other eligible forms of payment to book qualifying flights that count toward this Companion Pass promotion.”

To qualify, Rapid Rewards Members must:³

1. Register for the promotion and purchase a qualifying Southwest^® flight (one round trip or two one-way qualifying flights), starting today through Sept. 5, 2024.
2. Travel by Nov. 20, 2024; and
3. Designate a Companion to fly for free¹ with them between Jan. 6, 2025, and March 6, 2025.

Visit Southwest.com for the full list of terms and conditions.

Join Rapid Rewards
The Southwest Rapid Rewards program is designed around a simple concept—to make earning reward flights faster and easier. With Rapid Rewards, every seat is a reward seat, there are no blackout dates, and points don’t expire.¹ Customers can create an account to become a Rapid Rewards Member at Southwest.com to take advantage of Southwest’s award-winning loyalty program benefits.

TERMS & CONDITIONS
Visit Southwest.com for the full list of terms and conditions.
¹All Rapid Rewards rules and regulations apply and can be found at Southwest.com/rrterms.
²Doesn’t include taxes and fees from $5.60 one-way. Must include Rapid Rewards number during booking. Limited time. Restrictions apply. Qualifying flight(s) must be flown by the same Member.
³Members can register for this promotion, then book one round trip or two one-way qualifying Southwest flights between 8:00 a.m. Central Time (“CT”) on Sept. 3, 2024, and 11:59 p.m. CT on Sept. 5, 2024, (the “Promotion Period”) for travel from Sept. 3, 2024, and Nov. 20, 2024, (the “Travel Period”), and fly during the Travel Period to earn a promotional Companion Pass valid for use between Jan. 6, 2025, and March 6, 2025. To register for this promotion, Members will need to provide their Southwest Rapid Rewards account number at the time of registration. If a Customer doesn’t have a Rapid Rewards account number, they may register for an account by going online to Southwest.com/rapidrewards to become a Member. Rapid Rewards accounts are free. Member must register for this promotion, book one round trip or two one-way qualifying Southwest flights during the Promotion Period for travel during the Travel Period, and fly during the Travel Period. Registration must be completed prior to booking and commencement of travel. Valid on new qualifying flights booked during the Promotion Period for travel during the Travel Period and flown within the Travel Period. Member’s qualifying flight must be booked through Southwest.com or swabiz.com during the Promotion Period for travel that must be completed during the Travel Period. Member’s Rapid Rewards account number must be entered at the time of booking Member’s qualifying flight to earn a promotional Companion Pass valid for use between Jan. 6, 2025, and March 6, 2025. A qualifying one-way flight for this promotion is a one-way flight on Southwest Airlines from an origin city to a destination city, including any intermediate stops and/or connections on Southwest Airlines. A qualifying round trip flight for this promotion is a round trip flight on Southwest Airlines from an origin city to a destination city and back to the originating airport or carrier-recognized co-terminal. Valid on new reservations booked within the Promotion Period for travel during the Travel Period only. Travel booked or flown prior to registration for this promotion is not eligible for this promotional Companion Pass offer. Reward travel and Cash + Points bookings qualify for this promotional offer. Companion Pass, charter flights, reward or group travel, and Southwest Vacations^® packages do not qualify as one-way or round trip flights for this promotion. Qualifying flights(s) booked with Cash + Points will qualify as round trip or two one-way revenue flights for this promotion. Changes made to any itinerary after purchase of a round trip or two one-way revenue flights may eliminate qualification for this promotion. The promotional Companion Pass is valid from Jan. 6, 2025, through March 6, 2025, and allows Members to designate one person to fly with them, free of airline charges (doesn’t include taxes and fees from $5.60 one-way) on flights purchased by the Member, booked through Southwest, and completed between Jan. 6, 2025, and March 6, 2025. No Rapid Rewards points nor tier or Companion Pass qualifying points will be awarded for flights taken by the Companion when flying on a promotional Companion Pass or Companion Pass reservation. Members may change their designated Companion up to three times while they have the promotional Companion Pass. If a Member earns Companion Pass in 2024 by earning 135,000 Companion Pass qualifying points or flying 100 qualifying flights, any changes to their designated Companion during the time they have a promotional Companion Pass will reduce the number of changes they can make to their designated Companion in the 2025 calendar year. For example, if a Member earn a promotional Companion Pass through this promotion, change their designated Companion twice during the validity period for promotional Companion Pass, and later in 2025 earn Companion Pass, they would only be able to change their designated Companion one more time in 2025. Companion Pass is nontransferable. All Rapid Rewards rules and regulations apply and can be found at Southwest.com/rrterms. Southwest reserves the right to amend, suspend, or change the Rapid Rewards program and/or Rapid Rewards program rules at any time without notice. Rapid Rewards Members don’t acquire property rights in accrued points. The number of points needed for a particular Southwest flight is set by Southwest and will vary depending on destination, time, day of travel, demand, fare type, point redemption rate, and other factors, and is subject to change at any time until the booking is confirmed.

ABOUT SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CO.    
Southwest Airlines Co. operates one of the world’s most admired and awarded airlines, offering its one-of-a-kind value and Hospitality at 117 airports across 11 countries. Southwest took flight in 1971 to democratize the sky through friendly, reliable, and low-cost air travel and now carries more air travelers flying nonstop within the United States than any other airline⁴. Based in Dallas and famous for an Employee-first corporate Culture, Southwest maintains an unprecedented record of no involuntary furloughs or layoffs in its history. By empowering its more than 74,000⁵ People to deliver unparalleled Hospitality, the maverick airline cherishes a passionate loyalty among more than 137 million Customers carried in 2023. That formula for success brought industry-leading prosperity and 47 consecutive years⁶ of profitability for Southwest Shareholders (NYSE: LUV). Southwest leverages a unique legacy and mission to serve communities around the world including harnessing the power of its People and Purpose to put communities at the Heart of its success. Learn more by visiting Southwest.com/citizenship. As the airline with Heart, Southwest has set a goal to work toward achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050⁷. Southwest has also set near-term targets and a three-pillar strategy to achieve its environmental goals. Learn more by visiting Southwest.com/planet.  

⁴Based on U.S. Dept. of Transportation quarterly Airline Origin & Destination Survey since Q1 2021  
⁵Fulltime-equivalent active Employees       
⁶1973-2019 annual profitability     
⁷Our net zero by 2050 goal includes Scope 1, Scope 2, and Scope 3 Category 3 emissions only and excludes any emissions associated with non-fuel products and services, such as inflight service items. 

SOURCE Southwest Airlines Co.

New Orders and Backlogs Contracting; Production and Employment Contracting; Supplier Deliveries Slowing; Raw Materials Inventories Expanding; Customers’ Inventories Too Low; Prices Increasing; Exports and Imports Contracting

TEMPE, Ariz., Sept. 3, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Economic activity in the manufacturing sector contracted in August for the fifth consecutive month and the 21st time in the last 22 months, 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 Manufacturing PMI^® registered 47.2 percent in August, up 0.4 percentage point from the 46.8 percent recorded in July. The overall economy continued in expansion for the 52nd month after one month of contraction in April 2020. (A Manufacturing PMI^® above 42.5 percent, over a period of time, generally indicates an expansion of the overall economy.) The New Orders Index remained in contraction territory, registering 44.6 percent, 2.8 percentage points lower than the 47.4 percent recorded in July. The August reading of the Production Index (44.8 percent) is 1.1 percentage points lower than July’s figure of 45.9 percent. The Prices Index registered 54 percent, up 1.1 percentage points compared to the reading of 52.9 percent in July. The Backlog of Orders Index registered 43.6 percent, up 1.9 percentage points compared to 41.7 in July. The Employment Index registered 46 percent, up 2.6 percentage points from July’s figure of 43.4 percent.

“The Supplier Deliveries Index indicated slowing deliveries, registering 50.5 percent, 2.1 percentage points lower than the 52.6 percent recorded in July. (Supplier Deliveries is the only ISM^® Report On Business^® index that is inversed; a reading of above 50 percent indicates slower deliveries, which is typical as the economy improves and customer demand increases.) The Inventories Index registered 50.3 percent, up 5.8 percentage points compared to July’s reading of 44.5 percent.

“The New Export Orders Index reading of 48.6 percent is 0.4 percentage point lower than the 49 percent registered in July. The Imports Index remained in contraction territory in August, registering 49.6 percent, 1 percentage point higher than the 48.6 percent reported in July.”

Fiore continues, “While still in contraction territory, U.S. manufacturing activity contracted slower compared to last month. Demand continues to be weak, output declined, and inputs stayed accommodative. Demand slowing was reflected by the (1) New Orders Index dropping further into contraction, (2) New Export Orders Index contracting slightly faster, (3) Backlog of Orders Index remaining in strong contraction territory, and (4) Customers’ Inventories Index at the ‘just right’ level. (For more, see the Customers’ Inventories Index summary below.) Output (measured by the Production and Employment indexes) continued in moderate contraction with production sagging further, while employment contracted slower as compared to July. Panelists’ companies reduced production levels month over month as head-count reductions continued in August. Inputs — defined as supplier deliveries, inventories, prices and imports — generally continued to accommodate future demand growth, with inventory growth attributed to a supply demand timing mismatch.

“Demand remains subdued, as companies show an unwillingness to invest in capital and inventory due to current federal monetary policy and election uncertainty. Production execution was down compared to July, putting additional pressure on profitability. Suppliers continue to have capacity, with lead times improving and shortages not as severe. Sixty-five percent of manufacturing gross domestic product (GDP) contracted in August, down from 86 percent in July. The share of manufacturing sector GDP registering a composite PMI^® calculation at or below 45 percent (a good barometer of overall manufacturing weakness) was 33 percent in August, a 20-percentage point improvement compared to the 53 percent reported in July. Two of the six of the largest manufacturing industries — Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; and Computer & Electronic Products — expanded in August, compared to none in July,” says Fiore.

The five manufacturing industries reporting growth in August are: Primary Metals; Petroleum & Coal Products; Furniture & Related Products; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; and Computer & Electronic Products. The 12 industries reporting contraction in August — in the following order — are: Textile Mills; Printing & Related Support Activities; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Plastics & Rubber Products; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Fabricated Metal Products; Transportation Equipment; Wood Products; Machinery; Paper Products; Chemical Products; and Miscellaneous Manufacturing.

WHAT RESPONDENTS ARE SAYING

• “A noticeable slowdown in business activity. Staffing and production rationalization has been triggered. Previous optimism about future growth has been dashed.” [Chemical Products]
• “Backlog has dropped in half as invoicing remains strong, but orders have slowed significantly. Hoping to see orders pick back up for the fourth quarter and into 2025 but expect third quarter to remain slow for incoming orders.” [Transportation Equipment]
• “After a slow start and lower year-over-year sales volume during the first half of the year, we are now seeing a mild increase in year-over-year sales volume, along with more steady growth.” [Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products]
• “Business outlook is good. Recovery from the electronics slowdown is strong for the second half of the year.” [Computer & Electronic Products]
• “New order intake is sluggish at best. Interestingly, even though orders are down, inquiries are up. Customers have indicated capital has been approved for equipment purchases, but they were directed to put projects on hold until the fourth quarter of 2024. This indicates the uncertainty around the election. We anticipate a strong end of the year, with a rise in backlog going into 2025.” [Machinery]
• “Our order levels are on a slow, steady decline; it looks like the trend will continue through the end of the year. We are downsizing through attrition and not hiring backfills, but there have been no layoffs to date. The bright spot is a few customer programs have helped increase orders for parts, resulting in some production areas to be very busy while others have little work. Redeploying people where we can.” [Fabricated Metal Products]
• “New orders continue to be strong, and inventories are slightly down as a result. Supplier lead times seem to be creeping back up in certain categories.” [Miscellaneous Manufacturing]
• “Business is cooling down, and we don’t expect a rebound until after the election is over. As we build our 2025 budget, we continue to have deep concerns about the added environmental costs on energy.” [Paper Products]
• “Order book remains strong for now. We are preparing for a slowdown in U.S. auto sales. We are running overtime to keep pace, as hiring hourly employees has been difficult. Some walk off the job within hours because they cannot handle factory work.” [Primary Metals]
• “High interest rates are curtailing consumer spending on large discretionary spending for furniture, cabinetry, flooring and decorative trim, which has affected our industry sales potential. At the same time, pent-up demand seems to be growing for housing and remodeling. Interest rate cuts may not happen soon enough to have an impact this year.” [Wood Products]

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
Aluminum* (9); Corrugate (2); Corrugated Boxes (2); Electrical Components (4); Labor — Temporary; Maintenance, Repair and Operating (MRO) Supplies; Ocean Freight (4); Paper Products (2); Plastic Products; Plastic Resins (8); Polyethylene Resin; Polypropylene Resin (2); Road Freight; and Steel*.

Commodities Down in Price
Aluminum*; Copper (2); Electricity; Natural Gas (2); Packaging Products; Solvents; Steel* (4); Steel — Cold Rolled; Steel — Hot Rolled (4); and Steel Products (3).

Commodities in Short Supply
Electrical Components (47); Electrical Equipment (2); Electronic Components (5); Hydraulic Components (2); and Pigments.

Note: The number of consecutive months the commodity is listed is indicated after each item.

*Indicates both up and down in price.

AUGUST 2024 MANUFACTURING INDEX SUMMARIES

Manufacturing PMI^®
The U.S. manufacturing sector contracted for the fifth consecutive month in August, as the Manufacturing PMI^® registered 47.2 percent, up 0.4 percentage point compared to July’s reading of 46.8 percent. “After breaking a 16-month streak of contraction by expanding in March, the manufacturing sector has contracted the last five months, but at a slower rate in August. Of the five subindexes that directly factor into the Manufacturing PMI^®, only one (Supplier Deliveries) was in expansion territory, the same as in July. The New Orders Index remained in contraction and moved downward in August. Two of the six biggest manufacturing industries (Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; and Computer & Electronic Products) registered growth,” says Fiore. A reading above 50 percent indicates that the manufacturing sector is generally expanding; below 50 percent indicates that it is generally contracting.

A Manufacturing PMI^® above 42.5 percent, over a period of time, generally indicates an expansion of the overall economy. Therefore, the August Manufacturing PMI^® indicates the overall economy grew for the 52nd straight month after last contracting in April 2020. “The past relationship between the Manufacturing PMI^® and the overall economy indicates that the August reading (47.2 percent) corresponds to a change of plus-1.3 percent in real gross domestic product (GDP) on an annualized basis,” says Fiore.

THE LAST 12 MONTHS

New Orders
ISM^®‘s New Orders Index contracted in August for the fifth consecutive month, registering 44.6 percent, a decrease of 2.8 percentage points compared to July’s figure of 47.4 percent. The New Orders Index hasn’t indicated consistent growth since a 24-month streak of expansion ended in May 2022. “Of the six largest manufacturing sectors, only one (Computer & Electronic Products) reported increased new orders. Panelists noted a continued level of uncertainty and concern about a lack of new order activity — with a 1-to-1.6 ratio of positive comments versus those expressing concern — and their confidence in the future economic environment remains at its lowest levels since the coronavirus pandemic recovery,” says Fiore. A New Orders Index above 52.3 percent, over time, is generally consistent with an increase in the Census Bureau’s series on manufacturing orders (in constant 2000 dollars).

The four manufacturing industries that reported growth in new orders in August are: Paper Products; Primary Metals; Wood Products; and Computer & Electronic Products. The 11 industries reporting a decline in new orders in August — in the following order — are: Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Printing & Related Support Activities; Plastics & Rubber Products; Fabricated Metal Products; Transportation Equipment; Furniture & Related Products; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; Machinery; Chemical Products; and Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products.

Production
The Production Index continued in contraction territory in August, registering 44.8 percent, 1.1 percentage points lower than the July reading of 45.9 percent. Of the six largest manufacturing sectors, only Computer & Electronic Products reported increased production. The index is at its lowest level since May 2020, when it registered 34.2 percent. “Panelists’ companies reduced output levels compared to July. New order rates remain weak, and backlog levels continue to decline. Companies continue to avoid investing in inventory due to the current economic uncertainty,” says Fiore. An index above 52.2 percent, over time, is generally consistent with an increase in the Federal Reserve Board’s Industrial Production figures.

The three industries reporting growth in production during the month of August are: Computer & Electronic Products; Primary Metals; and Miscellaneous Manufacturing. The seven industries reporting a decrease in production in August, in order, are: Transportation Equipment; Textile Mills; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Machinery; Fabricated Metal Products; and Chemical Products. Eight industries reported no change in production in August as compared to July.

Employment
ISM^®‘s Employment Index registered 46 percent in August, 2.6 percentage points higher than the July reading of 43.4 percent. The July and August readings are among the four lowest recorded since the index registered 43.7 percent in July 2020, early in the economic recovery; the others are 45.9 percent in February and 45 percent in July 2023. “The index contracted for the third consecutive month after an expansion in May, which broke a seven-month streak of contraction. Of the six big manufacturing sectors only Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products expanded employment in August, primarily due to seasonality factors. Respondents’ companies are continuing to reduce head counts through layoffs, attrition and hiring freezes. Sentiment in August indicated continued staff reductions compared to July, supported by the approximately 1-to-1.2 ratio of hiring versus head-count reduction comments,” says Fiore. An Employment Index above 50.3 percent, over time, is generally consistent with an increase in the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data on manufacturing employment.

Of 18 manufacturing industries, the three industries reporting employment growth in August are: Furniture & Related Products; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; and Primary Metals. The 10 industries reporting a decrease in employment in August, in the following order, are: Plastics & Rubber Products; Wood Products; Textile Mills; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Fabricated Metal Products; Paper Products; Transportation Equipment; Computer & Electronic Products; Chemical Products; and Miscellaneous Manufacturing.

Supplier Deliveries^†
Delivery performance of suppliers to manufacturing organizations was marginally slower in August, with the Supplier Deliveries Index registering 50.5 percent, a 2.1-percentage point decrease compared to the reading of 52.6 percent reported in July. This is the second month of slower deliveries after four consecutive months of faster deliveries. After a reading of 52.4 percent in September 2022, the index went into contraction territory the following month and remained there until February. Of the six big industries, three (Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Computer & Electronic Products; and Transportation Equipment) reported slower supplier deliveries in August. “Supplier deliveries are stabilizing as panelists’ companies continue to rely on their suppliers to manage their purchased material inventories, putting strain on the supply chain,” says Fiore. A reading below 50 percent indicates faster deliveries, while a reading above 50 percent indicates slower deliveries.

The eight manufacturing industries reporting slower supplier deliveries in August — listed in order — are: Petroleum & Coal Products; Textile Mills; Furniture & Related Products; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Computer & Electronic Products; Transportation Equipment; and Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components. The five industries reporting faster supplier deliveries in August are: Paper Products; Fabricated Metal Products; Primary Metals; Machinery; and Chemical Products.

Inventories
The Inventories Index registered 50.3 percent in August, up a substantial 5.8 percentage points compared to the reading of 44.5 percent reported in July. “Manufacturing inventories grew as a result of panelists’ companies adjusting to lower new output levels and the subsequent timing issues. Of the six big industries, five (Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Computer & Electronic Products; Fabricated Metal Products; Transportation Equipment; and Chemical Products) reported increased manufacturing inventories in August,” says Fiore. An Inventories Index greater than 44.4 percent, over time, is generally consistent with expansion in the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) figures on overall manufacturing inventories (in chained 2000 dollars).

Of 18 manufacturing industries, eight reported higher inventories in August, in the following order: Petroleum & Coal Products; Furniture & Related Products; Primary Metals; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Computer & Electronic Products; Fabricated Metal Products; Transportation Equipment; and Chemical Products. The seven industries reporting lower inventories in August — in the following order — are: Textile Mills; Wood Products; Printing & Related Support Activities; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Paper Products; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; and Machinery.

Customers’ Inventories^†
ISM^®‘s Customers’ Inventories Index registered 48.4 percent in August, up 2.6 percentage points compared to the 45.8 percent reported in July. “Customers’ inventory levels decreased at a slower rate in August, with the index moving upward to approach the lower end of ‘just right’ territory. This means panelists are reporting their companies’ customers have adequate (or just right) amounts of their products in inventory compared to the previous month, suggesting a demand level that is typically neutral for future new orders and production,” says Fiore.

The four industries reporting customers’ inventories as too high in August are: Textile Mills; Machinery; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; and Computer & Electronic Products. The six industries reporting customers’ inventories as too low in August, in order, are: Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Paper Products; Primary Metals; Transportation Equipment; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; and Fabricated Metal Products. Seven industries reported no change in customers’ inventories in August as compared to July.

Prices^†
The ISM^® Prices Index registered 54 percent, 1.1 percentage points higher compared to the July reading of 52.9 percent, indicating raw materials prices increased in August for the eighth straight month after eight consecutive months of decreases. Of the six largest manufacturing industries, four — Chemical Products; Computer & Electronic Products; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; and Transportation Equipment — reported price increases in August. “The Prices Index indicated expansion in August, at a faster rate compared to the previous month. Commodity prices continue to be volatile, especially oil, natural gas, aluminum, corrugate, freight transportation and plastic resins. Steel prices remain at historical lows. Twenty-one percent of companies reported higher prices in August, compared to 23 percent in July,” says Fiore. A Prices Index above 52.8 percent, over time, is generally consistent with an increase in the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Producer Price Index for Intermediate Materials.

In August, the nine industries that reported paying increased prices for raw materials, in order, are: Textile Mills; Furniture & Related Products; Plastics & Rubber Products; Petroleum & Coal Products; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; Chemical Products; Computer & Electronic Products; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; and Transportation Equipment. The six industries reporting paying decreased prices for raw materials in August, in order, are: Apparel, Leather & Allied Products; Fabricated Metal Products; Primary Metals; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; and Machinery.

Backlog of Orders^†
ISM^®‘s Backlog of Orders Index registered 43.6 percent, a gain of 1.9 percentage points compared to the July reading of 41.7 percent, indicating order backlogs contracted for the 23rd consecutive month after a 27-month period of expansion. Of the six largest manufacturing industries, only Computer & Electronic Products reported expanded order backlogs in August. “The index remained in contraction in August, as lower new order and production rates were insufficient to allow backlogs to grow,” says Fiore.

Of the 18 manufacturing industries, the only one reporting growth in order backlogs in August is Computer & Electronic Products. The 11 industries reporting lower backlogs in August — in the following order — are: Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Fabricated Metal Products; Machinery; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Wood Products; Furniture & Related Products; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Transportation Equipment; Plastics & Rubber Products; Chemical Products; and Primary Metals.

New Export Orders^†
ISM^®‘s New Export Orders Index registered 48.6 percent in August, down 0.4 percentage point from July’s reading of 49 percent. “The New Export Orders Index reading indicates that export orders contracted for a third month after expanding in May and contracting in April, with two straight months of expansion before that. New export orders remain sluggish as international trading partners continue to struggle with weak economies,” says Fiore.

The six industries reporting growth in new export orders in August — in the following order — are: Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Furniture & Related Products; Paper Products; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Computer & Electronic Products; and Miscellaneous Manufacturing. The six industries reporting a decrease in new export orders in August — in the following order — are: Plastics & Rubber Products; Fabricated Metal Products; Chemical Products; Machinery; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; and Transportation Equipment.

Imports^†
ISM^®‘s Imports Index continued to indicate cooling in August with a reading of 49.6 percent, an increase of 1 percentage point compared to July’s figure of 48.6 percent. “Imports contracted for the third month in a row after five consecutive months of expansion preceded by 14 consecutive months of contraction. Respondents’ companies have limited their investments in inventory, as growth prospects remain unclear. Ocean freight costs continue to rise, and access to equipment remains challenged,” says Fiore.

The six industries reporting an increase in import volumes in August — in the following order — are: Wood Products; Furniture & Related Products; Miscellaneous Manufacturing; Computer & Electronic Products; Chemical Products; and Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products. The seven industries that reported lower volumes of imports in August, in order, are: Textile Mills; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Fabricated Metal Products; Primary Metals; Plastics & Rubber Products; Transportation Equipment; and Machinery.

^†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
The average commitment lead time for Capital Expenditures in August was 167 days, a decrease of 10 days compared to July. Average lead time in August for Production Materials was 79 days, an increase of two days compared to July. Average lead time for Maintenance, Repair and Operating (MRO) Supplies was 43 days, a decrease of three days compared to July.

About This Report
DO NOT CONFUSE THIS NATIONAL REPORT with the various regional purchasing reports released across the country. The national report’s information reflects the entire U.S., while the regional reports contain primarily regional data from their local vicinities. Also, the information in the regional reports is not used in calculating the results of the national report. The information compiled in this report is for the month of August 2024.

The data presented herein is obtained from a survey of manufacturing supply executives based on information they have collected within their respective organizations. ISM^® makes no representation, other than that stated within this release, regarding the individual company data collection procedures. The data should be compared to all other economic data sources when used in decision-making.

Data and Method of Presentation
The Manufacturing ISM^® Report On Business^® is based on data compiled from purchasing and supply executives nationwide. The composition of the Manufacturing Business Survey Committee is stratified according to the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) and each of the following NAICS-based industries’ contribution to gross domestic product (GDP): Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Textile Mills; Apparel, Leather & Allied Products; Wood Products; Paper Products; Printing & Related Support Activities; Petroleum & Coal Products; Chemical Products; Plastics & Rubber Products; Nonmetallic Mineral Products; Primary Metals; Fabricated Metal Products; Machinery; Computer & Electronic Products; Electrical Equipment, Appliances & Components; Transportation Equipment; Furniture & Related Products; and Miscellaneous Manufacturing (products such as medical equipment and supplies, jewelry, sporting goods, toys and office supplies). The data are weighted based on each industry’s contribution to GDP. According to BEA estimates (the average of the fourth quarter 2022 GDP estimate and the GDP estimates for first, second, and third quarter 2023, as released on December 21, 2023), the six largest manufacturing industries are: Chemical Products; Transportation Equipment; Food, Beverage & Tobacco Products; Computer & Electronic Products; Machinery; and Fabricated Metal Products.

Survey responses reflect the change, if any, in the current month compared to the previous month. For each of the indicators measured (New Orders, Backlog of Orders, New Export Orders, Imports, Production, Supplier Deliveries, Inventories, Customers’ Inventories, Employment and Prices), this report shows the percentage reporting each response, the net difference between the number of responses in the positive economic direction (higher, better and slower for Supplier Deliveries) and the negative economic direction (lower, worse and faster for Supplier Deliveries), and the diffusion index. Responses are raw data and are never changed. The diffusion index includes the percent of positive responses plus one-half of those responding the same (considered positive).

The resulting single index number for those meeting the criteria for seasonal adjustments (Manufacturing PMI^®, New Orders, Production, Employment and Inventories) is then seasonally adjusted to allow for the effects of repetitive intra-year variations resulting primarily from normal differences in weather conditions, various institutional arrangements, and differences attributable to non-moveable holidays. All seasonal adjustment factors are subject annually to relatively minor changes when conditions warrant them. The Manufacturing PMI^® is a composite index based on the diffusion indexes of five of the indexes with equal weights: New Orders (seasonally adjusted), Production (seasonally adjusted), Employment (seasonally adjusted), Supplier Deliveries, and Inventories (seasonally adjusted).

Diffusion indexes have the properties of leading indicators and are convenient summary measures showing the prevailing direction of change and the scope of change. A Manufacturing PMI^® reading above 50 percent indicates that the manufacturing economy is generally expanding; below 50 percent indicates that it is generally declining. A Manufacturing PMI^® above 42.5 percent, over a period of time, indicates that the overall economy, or gross domestic product (GDP), is generally expanding; below 42.5 percent, it is generally declining. The distance from 50 percent or 42.5 percent is indicative of the extent of the expansion or decline. With some of the indicators within this report, ISM^® has indicated the departure point between expansion and decline of comparable government series, as determined by regression analysis. The Manufacturing ISM^® Report On Business^® survey is sent out to Manufacturing Business Survey Committee respondents the first part of each month. Respondents are asked to report on information for the current month for U.S. operations only. ISM^® receives survey responses throughout most of any given month, with the majority of respondents generally waiting until late in the month to submit responses to give the most accurate picture of current business activity. ISM^® then compiles the report for release on the first business day of the following month.

The industries reporting growth, as indicated in the Manufacturing ISM^® Report On Business^® monthly report, are listed in the order of most growth to least growth. For the industries reporting contraction or decreases, those are listed in the order of the highest level of contraction/decrease to the least level of contraction/decrease.

Responses to Buying Policy reflect the percent reporting the current month’s lead time, the approximate weighted number of days ahead for which commitments are made for Capital Expenditures; Production Materials; and Maintenance, Repair and Operating (MRO) Supplies, expressed as hand-to-mouth (five days), 30 days, 60 days, 90 days, six months (180 days), a year or more (360 days), and the weighted average number of days. These responses are raw data, never revised, and not seasonally adjusted.

ISM ROB Content
The Institute for Supply Management^® (“ISM”) Report On Business^® (both Manufacturing and Non-Manufacturing) (“ISM ROB”) contains information, text, files, images, video, sounds, musical works, works of authorship, applications, and any other materials or content (collectively, “Content”) of ISM (“ISM ROB Content”). ISM ROB Content is protected by copyright, trademark, trade secret, and other laws, and as between you and ISM, ISM owns and retains all rights in the ISM ROB Content. ISM hereby grants you a limited, revocable, nonsublicensable license to access and display on your individual device the ISM ROB Content (excluding any software code) solely for your personal, non-commercial use. The ISM ROB Content shall also contain Content of users and other ISM licensors. Except as provided herein or as explicitly allowed in writing by ISM, you shall not copy, download, stream, capture, reproduce, duplicate, archive, upload, modify, translate, publish, broadcast, transmit, retransmit, distribute, perform, display, sell, or otherwise use any ISM ROB Content.

Except as explicitly and expressly permitted by ISM, you are strictly prohibited from creating works or materials (including but not limited to tables, charts, data streams, time-series variables, fonts, icons, link buttons, wallpaper, desktop themes, online postcards, montages, mashups and similar videos, greeting cards, and unlicensed merchandise) that derive from or are based on the ISM ROB Content. This prohibition applies regardless of whether the derivative works or materials are sold, bartered, or given away. You shall not either directly or through the use of any device, software, internet site, web-based service, or other means remove, alter, bypass, avoid, interfere with, or circumvent any copyright, trademark, or other proprietary notices marked on the Content or any digital rights management mechanism, device, or other content protection or access control measure associated with the Content including geo-filtering mechanisms. Without prior written authorization from ISM, you shall not build a business utilizing the Content, whether or not for profit.

You shall not create, recreate, distribute, incorporate in other work, or advertise an index of any portion of the Content unless you receive prior written authorization from ISM. Requests for permission to reproduce or distribute ISM ROB Content can be made by contacting in writing at: ISM Research, Institute for Supply Management, 309 West Elliot Road, Suite 113, Tempe, Arizona 85284-1556, or by emailing [email protected]. Subject: Content Request.

ISM shall not have any liability, duty, or obligation for or relating to the ISM ROB Content or other information contained herein, any errors, inaccuracies, omissions or delays in providing any ISM ROB Content, or for any actions taken in reliance thereon. In no event shall ISM be liable for any special, incidental, or consequential damages, arising out of the use of the ISM ROB. Report On Business^®, PMI^®, Manufacturing PMI^®, Services PMI^®, Hospital PMI^®, and NMI^® are registered trademarks of Institute for Supply Management^®. Institute for Supply Management^® and ISM^® are registered trademarks of Institute for Supply Management, Inc.

About Institute for Supply Management^® (ISM^®)
Institute for Supply Management^® (ISM^®) is the first and leading not-for-profit professional supply management organization worldwide. Its community of more than 50,000 in more than 100 countries manage about US$1 trillion in corporate and government supply chain procurement annually. Founded in 1915 by practitioners, ISM is committed to advancing the practice of supply management to drive value and competitive advantage for its members, contributing to a prosperous and sustainable world. ISM empowers and leads the profession through the ISM^® Report On Business^®, its highly-regarded certification and training programs, corporate services, events and assessments. The ISM^® Report On Business^®, Manufacturing, Services, and Hospital, are three of the most reliable economic indicators available, providing guidance to supply management professionals, economists, analysts, and government and business leaders. For more information, please visit: www.ismworld.org. 

The full text version of the Manufacturing ISM^® Report On Business^® is posted on ISM^®‘s website at www.ismrob.org on the first business day* of every month after 10:00 a.m. ET. The one exception is in January when the report is released on the second business day of the month.

The next Manufacturing ISM^® Report On Business^® featuring September 2024 data will be released at 10:00 a.m. ET on Tuesday, October 1, 2024.

*Unless the New York Stock Exchange is closed.

SOURCE Institute for Supply Management

Academy and GRAMMY Award-winner’s character acting is centerpiece of new series showcasing how BetMGM “treats you right”  

JERSEY CITY, N.J., Sept. 3, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — BetMGM, a leading sports betting and iGaming operator, is premiering a new football season television commercial series featuring Jamie Foxx. Throughout the entertaining campaign, Foxx displays his comedic range with several character impersonations showcasing BetMGM’s brand DNA: born in Las Vegas, rooted in hospitality and entertainment, and focused on treating its customers right. Filmed in Los Angeles and directed by Brian Billow, the new spots will air nationwide in prime time and continue to run on multiple platforms throughout the upcoming season.

“I always love creating fun content with my BetMGM family when football season comes around,” said Foxx. “We had a blast filming these spots and showing the swagger of BetMGM.”

Click here to download and view campaign photos (credit: BetMGM)

The spots highlight the premier experience that BetMGM provides to its customers. The first spot in the series, titled “Anthem”, stars Foxx portraying a variety of characters as they go through mixed emotions on game day. Through fans’ highs and lows, Foxx demonstrates how BetMGM treats customers with hotel suites and other real-world benefits redeemable through the sports betting operator’s rewards program and exclusive connection to MGM Resorts International’s destinations and Marriott Bonvoy.

Click here to view the “Anthem” spot

A second spot features Foxx as a sportscaster explaining BetMGM’s new “Second Chance” promotion which allows anyone who places a straight bet on a player to score the first touchdown of the game to automatically win back their wager in cash if that player scores on the second touchdown of the game. A cast of characters – all played by Foxx – excitedly question the possibilities of the new offer which is exclusively available at BetMGM for the professional football season (Second Chance paid via withdrawable unrestricted funds). 

Click here to view the “Second Chance” spot

In the series’ third spot, Foxx highlights how BetMGM makes bettors feel welcome with a special offer allowing new BetMGM customers to earn up to $1,500 in bonus bets if their first bet loses (offer not available in NV, PR and ON; bonus bets are non-withdrawable and expire in seven days).

Click here to view the “Feel Welcome” spot

Matt Prevost, Chief Revenue Officer of BetMGM, said, “Jamie Foxx is a rare talent who can captivate an audience in any forum. This campaign, in partnership with Highdive, taps into his confidence and range, and will both entertain and inform viewers about BetMGM’s exciting new features for football season.”

“We’re thrilled to unveil our latest campaign with BetMGM featuring the incredibly talented Jamie Foxx,” said Mark Gross, Co-Founder and Co-Chief Creative Officer of Highdive.  “Our aim was to showcase how BetMGM ‘treats you right,’ and Jamie’s performance brilliantly captures the campaign’s core message.”

BetMGM currently operates in 29 markets across North America including AZ, CO, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, MD, MA, MI, MS, NV, NJ, NM, NY, NC, OH, OR, PA, SD, TN, VA, DC, WA, WV, WY as well as Ontario, Canada and Puerto Rico.

As BetMGM continues to expand into new markets and introduce new features, responsible gaming remains a key focus. Additionally, BetMGM is proud to provide resources to help customers play responsibly including GameSense, an industry leading program, developed and licensed to MGM Resorts by the British Columbia Lottery Corporation. Through the integration within BetMGM’s mobile and desktop platforms, customers can receive the same GameSense experience they have grown to rely on at MGM Resorts properties nationwide. This complements BetMGM’s already existing responsible gambling tools which serve to provide customers with an entertaining and safe digital experience.

The BetMGM app is available for download on both iOS and Android and is accessible via desktop at http://www.betmgm.com.

For more information on BetMGM, follow @BetMGM on X.

Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (Available in the US),Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY),Call 1-800-327-5050 (MA). 21+ only. Please Gamble Responsibly. Call 1-800-NEXT-STEP (AZ), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-981-0023 (PR).  Subject to eligibility requirements. In partnership with Kansas Crossing Casino and Hotel. See BetMGM.com for Terms. US promotional offers not available in DC, Mississippi, New York, Nevada, Ontario, or Puerto Rico.

About BetMGM
BetMGM is a market-leading sports betting and gaming entertainment company, pioneering the online gaming industry. Born out of a partnership between MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM) and Entain Plc (LSE: ENT), BetMGM has exclusive access to all of MGM’s U.S. land-based and online sports betting, major tournament poker, and online gaming businesses. Utilizing Entain’s U.S.-licensed, state-of-the-art technology, BetMGM offers sports betting and online gaming via market-leading brands including BetMGM, Borgata Casino, Party Casino and Party Poker. Founded in 2018, BetMGM is headquartered in New Jersey. For more information, visit https://sports.betmgm.com/en/blog/.

Forward-Looking Statement
Statements in this release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended, which involve substantial risks and/or uncertainties, including those described in MGM Resorts International’s public filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “believes,” “expects,” “could,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “seeks,” “likely,” “intends,” “plans,” “pro forma,” “projects,” “estimates” or “anticipates” or the negative of these words and phrases or similar words or phrases that are predictions of or indicate future events or trends and that do not relate solely to historical matters. BetMGM has based forward-looking statements on management’s current expectations, assumptions and projections about future events and trends. Examples of these statements include, but are not limited to, BetMGM’s expectations regarding launch of the new BetMGM television commercial series featuring Jamie Foxx. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, conditions or results, and involve a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors, that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. Included among the important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated in such forward-looking statements are: risks related to the effects of economic conditions and market conditions in the markets in which BetMGM operates, the significant competition within the gaming and entertainment industry; BetMGM’s ability to execute on its business plan; changes in applicable laws or regulations, particularly with respect to iGaming and online sports betting; BetMGM’s ability to manage growth and access the capital needed to support its growth plans; BetMGM’s ability to obtain the required licenses, permits and other approvals necessary to grow in existing and new jurisdictions, and additional risks and uncertainties described in MGM Resorts International’s Form 10-K, Form 10-Q and Form 8-K reports (including all amendments to those reports). In providing forward-looking statements, neither MGM Resorts International nor BetMGM is undertaking any duty or obligation to update these statements publicly as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. If MGM Resorts International or BetMGM updates one or more forward-looking statements, no inference should be drawn that it will make additional updates with respect to those other forward-looking statements.

SOURCE BetMGM

~Fueled By a Shared Family-Forward Entrepreneurial Spirit, Heritage Brands Will Work Together to Bring Sandals’ Uniquely Caribbean Brand Vision to Life~

MONTEGO BAY, Jamaica  , Sept. 3, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Sandals Resorts is pleased to announce the selection of the award-winning Leo Burnett as the agency of record supporting the Sandals and Beaches brands. The Chicago-based firm has been entrusted with the creative effort to enhance the respective brands under the resort companies’ umbrella. Announced today and beginning immediately, this engagement will encompass creative ideation and execution across all mediums and platforms for the brands dynamic portfolio of Caribbean resorts, including adults-only Sandals Resorts and family-friendly Beaches Resorts – honing in on shared family values and entrepreneurial synergies.

Leo Burnett’s selection is designed to bring a new era of bold, quintessentially Caribbean brand expression for the region’s leading and most award-winning all-inclusive resorts. This announcement follows a competitive review process that began in Q1 and included several of the industry’s most highly regarded global creative agencies.

“The founder of the Sandals Resorts brand and my father, the Hon. Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart, was a marketing virtuoso – a visionary – who forged a legacy that spans over four decades of Caribbean authenticity and treasured family values. He meticulously built what has now become one of the most well-recognized and beloved brands in travel with his brilliance and resolute passion. Entrusting the brands and their heritage is deeply personal to me,” said Adam Stewart, Executive Chairman of the Sandals Resorts companies. “The Sandals brands and Leo Burnett represent very similar narratives: both family-led, founder-driven brands fueled by innovation. This next chapter is brimming with excitement and opportunity as we bring forward the best of the Caribbean together.”

Unique Vacations Inc. (UVI) will manage Leo Burnett’s support of the brands under the direction of its Chief Marketing Officer, Tony Cortizas: “This journey fostered new connections, hours of brand immersion and reflection, and a wealth of ingenious ideas that align with the remarkable evolution of the Sandals and Beaches brands as leaders in the all-inclusive space. Leo Burnett understood the brands’ roots as much as our inspired and passionate strategy forward, effortlessly clicking with the essence of Sandals and Beaches with their human approach to creative expression. We are thrilled to collaborate and showcase the incredible experiences that have earned the brands one of the industry’s most loyal customer bases. With Leo Burnett, this cherished legacy is in great hands.”

“As companies with similar values, the chemistry between Leo Burnett and Sandals Resorts was immediate. But the more you get to know the Sandals and Beaches brands, the more you fall in love with them,” said Britt Nolan, President and Chief Creative Officer of Leo Burnett. “There’s so much more to their story than people know. It’s a huge honor to steward such beloved brands and we’re super excited to help write their next chapter and show the world more.”

About Sandals Resorts
Sandals® Resorts offers the ease and refinement of the most-awarded luxury all-inclusive vacation experience in the Caribbean. With 17 beachfront settings in Jamaica, Antigua, Saint Lucia, The Bahamas, Barbados, Grenada, Curaçao, and Saint Vincent and The Grenadines, each resort reflects the design, cuisine, and unique essence of its island home. From butler service and exquisite cuisine to top-shelf spirits and incredible suites, including the Caribbean’s first Overwater Villas, the brand is known for pioneering innovations that constantly evolve and elevate the all-inclusive vacation experience. Sandals Resorts has recently piloted fresh concepts such as an off-site Island Inclusive dining program that invites guests to experience the local dining scene beyond the resort gates and MINI Coopers for island exploration on a whim – all while staying true to the brand’s Caribbean roots and showcasing the transformative link between tourism and the power to transform lives through the philanthropic arm of the business, the Sandals Foundation. For more information visit www.sandals.com.

About Beaches Resorts  
Beaches® Resorts is the Caribbean’s most-awarded luxury family all-inclusive vacation experience, where memories are created and made to last. With three spectacular locations in Turks & Caicos and Jamaica, and a fourth location set to debut in Exuma, Bahamas, Beaches Resorts is the ultimate beachfront getaway for every member of the family. Kids can hang with the Sesame Street gang as part of the Caribbean Adventures with Sesame Street®, splash in outrageous waterparks, enjoy exclusive Kids Camps and teen amenities, while parents indulge in butler service, luxurious spa treatments, and superb cuisine — all with the assurance of Certified Nannies, expertly trained team members and the honor of being the first resort company in the world to attain the Advanced Certified Autism Center (ACAC) designation from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). For more information about Beaches Resorts, visit www.beaches.com.

About Leo Burnett
Leo Burnett is a creative solutions company founded on the idea that “what helps people helps business.” By solving human problems with the power of creativity, Leo Burnett delivers value for people and prosperity for brands across more than 50 offices in 45 countries. To learn more about Leo Burnett and its rich, 89-year history, visit LeoBurnett.com.

SOURCE Sandals Resorts International

New as of this fall, the lobby and adjacent Martini Bar at The Ocean Club will have a fresh new look and feel. Best known for being featured in the 2006 James Bond film Casino Royale, the Martini Bar will be updated with new furnishings, art and decor, drawing inspiration from the lush tropical landscape beyond the beautiful Palladian windows. Principal interior designer, Joanna Kerr, says, “To add a touch of intrigue, we pay homage to the iconic Casino Royale film by infusing the space with hints of glamour, sophistication, and a sense of adventure.”

Kerr notes the decor will feature dark contrasts set against the white walls, along with warm sand tones, ocean blues, sunset blushes, and layers of textures reminiscent of basketweaves and ocean waves. “This will be a comfortable oasis where guests will be invited to unwind with a martini and enjoy the sweeping views of the azure sea, creating a sense of serenity,” adds Kerr.

The Martini Bar features decadent caviar and truffle martinis, plus favorites such as the passionfruit chili and vesper martinis. Don’t miss out on trying a martini flight, with a selection of renowned mixologist Keith Cash’s mini martinis, to sample several refreshing flavors. Cash was recently named the “Bahamas’ Best Bartender” as featured in Caribbean Journal magazine’s Travel and Sustainability Awards. This festive season, guests will have the opportunity to mix and mingle with Cash as they “shake and stir’ things up, with fun, interactive cocktail classes, offered on select dates.

Residential-style Accommodations
The Ocean Club offers two different wings of guestrooms- the Hartford Wing, cantered by a beautiful courtyard and fountain, and the Crescent Wing, where all rooms have an ocean view beyond a verdant palm garden. The renovated guestrooms and suites in the Crescent Wing are designed in a classic island elegance concept, with touches such as a gold bamboo-framed mirrors, and deep-soaking bathtubs surrounded by a custom curved wall mosaic. The spacious suites offer a separate living room and bedroom, a powder room, plus a full bath including an oversize glass shower and jetted deep-soaking tub. Furniture pieces include curved silhouettes and accents reminiscent of the undulating ocean waves, just steps away. Guestrooms and suites offer a private terrace or balcony, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and beautifully maintained verdant lawn, where hammocks between palms and white Adirondack chairs invite one to take a break and enjoy the tranquil setting. Guestroom terraces have been updated to include a large plush daybed, ideal for relaxing and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

Hartford Wing guestrooms and suites reflect a more modern Bahamian chic decor, with dark hardwood accents and touches of aqua and blush.  Hartford guestrooms and suites have views of either the ocean, or a scenic lushly landscaped garden, and provide easy access to the main lobby and Spa.

All king guest rooms include a queen-size sofa sleeper, accommodating a maximum occupancy of two adults and two children. Select guestrooms have two beds and have outer-connecting capabilities to either an Oceanfront Room with a king bed or an Oceanfront King Suite, ideal for families. For those seeking more privacy and space, and ideal for families and friends travelling together, The Ocean Club also boasts three spectacular beachfront villa residences, both three-and-four bedroom, and two two-bedroom bungalows with private plunge pools.

Those who check in on Dec. 21, 2024 or earlier can take advantage of special savings with the Resort’s Return to Paradise Offer, including a complimentary fourth night plus round-trip airport transfers.

Guests can pop by the Resort’s Hartford Gallery to experience the Residential Sales Center and make an appointment to learn more about The Ocean Club, Four Seasons Residences, Bahamas. Anticipated to open in 2027 and set within an oceanfront enclave in close proximity to the Resort, the upcoming residential community will present a curated collection of 67 turnkey Private Residences managed by Four Seasons.

Splash and Play
With three pools, including the oceanfront infinity-edge Ocean Pool, the adult-only Versailles Pool, and the Family Lagoon Pool, there is ample space to splash and play or simply lounge in the serenity of the balmy, breezy air. The pristine white sand beach, dotted with bright blue umbrellas, is a favourite for not only the scenic views, but also for the attentive beachside service. While parents are enjoying relaxation by the pools or at The Spa, kids ages 4 to 12 are entertained at the Resort’s complimentary Kids for All Seasons day camp, offered daily. With 35 meticulously landscaped acres to discover, guests of the 107-room Resort feel like they’re in their own private oasis.

Activities
Guests of The Ocean Club can enjoy an active lifestyle at the Resort, whether at the Fitness Centre with regular classes available, playing a match on one of the Resort’s six Har-Tru tennis courts, or hitting the links at the 18-hole Tom Weiszkopf designed Ocean Club Golf Course. Water sports also abound, with stand-up paddleboards available beachside, and the Concierge can assist with excursions such as boating, fishing, snorkelling, parasailing and more. The Kids For All Seasons complimentary kids club is offering an array of delightful holiday-themed programming, with activities such as ornament making, build-a-sandman, faux-snow making, Christmas Jeopardy, holiday slime, ugly sweater decorating, and much more. The intimate eight-treatment room Spa, designed Balinese-style with private outdoor spaces and soaking bathtubs, is the ideal sanctuary to enjoy holiday pampering while children are being fully supervised and entertained.

Eat, Drink & Be Merry
For on-property dining, guests and locals alike revel in the gourmet options at DUNE by Jean-Georges. The signature oceanside restaurant provides delectable dining options, including fresh lobster with truffle butter, tuna tartare and caviar, and a delicious conch salad. Sunday brunch is an event not to be missed, with fresh delicacies including oysters, crab and more. Situated on a cliff with striking views of the sea, DUNE offers both indoor and outdoor seating, and live music on the weekends. In addition to DUNE, the newly enhanced Ocean Blu, situated next to the Ocean Pool, is now offering dinner service on select evenings, with live music on the weekends.  Ocean Blu offers grilled fare with zesty, tropical salsas and salads, truffle fries, and many more delicious items.

Festive Decor
Be dazzled by the Resort’s gorgeous Christmas tree, a breathtaking display in The Martini Bar, set by the picture window with the turquoise waters sparkling in the background. The intimate setting is the perfect backdrop for one’s family holiday photo.

Delight in the gingerbread house created by Executive Pastry Chef Philip Warden. This year’s beautiful gingerbread house stationed in the Resort’s lobby has an even sweeter purpose. The Ocean Club invites guests to give back by purchasing a gingerbread brick in support of The Ranfurly Home for Children, which provides a residential facility and on-site school for orphaned children. Guests can visit the front desk to make a donation, and Chef Warden and team will add a name chosen by the guest, written with icing onto a gingerbread brick.

Holiday Gifts
For the perfect holiday gift for the Bahamas enthusiast or for those who hold The Ocean Club in a special place in their heart, the Resort’s custom coffee table book, in collaboration with Assouline, is available for purchase. The Ocean Club book can be purchased online, and copies are available at the Resort.

As well, this past summer, the Resort collaborated with French designer JACQUEMUS on a collection of luxe, hand-painted stripe towels. Designed by JACQUEMUS exclusively for Four Seasons, the grand-sized Striped Pool Towel features bold black and white stripes. This look was featured at The Ocean Club’s Versailles and Ocean Pools over the summer season. A plush, designer pool towel makes the perfect gift.

In addition, The Ocean Club launched a custom shoe collection with global tastemaker Whitney Robinson and Palm Beach, Fla.-based loafer company Stubbs & Wootton. Two fashionable pairs of #FSOceanClubStubbs are the perfect souvenir of one’s time at the Resort, or a must-have shoe to wear on a property visit. One design is sand coloured with a conch shell and helm, and the other is a black velvet with “Shaken” on one shoe and “Stirred” on the other. No matter which shoe one steps out in, the shoes are as comfortable as they are a stylish conversation starter.

This holiday season, The Ocean Club is offering the following happenings and activities:

Thanksgiving Week
Oysters & Bubbles at Ocean Blu, Nov. 23, 5:30-7:30pm
Thanksgiving Dinner at Dune, Nov. 23, 6pm-10pm or Ocean Blu, 6pm-9:30pm

Fitness:
Nov. 23: Pilates, 8am; Core, butt & leg burn, 11am; tennis tournament, 11 am; Balance class, 3pm
Nov. 24: Hatha yoga alongside live cellist Romel Shearer, 8am; Pilates-infused balance class, 9am; Family tennis tournament, 11am; Super Sweat Boot Camp, 4pm
Nov. 25:  General Manager’s 5K Turkey Run, 7:30am; Vinyasa Flow Yoga, 8am; Pilates Intensive, 11am; Kids Tennis, 11am; Strong Body, 4pm
Nov. 26: Hatha yoga, 8am; Cardio Circuits, 11am

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day:  Enjoy culinary specials at Ocean Blu and DUNE.

New Year’s Eve Party: New Year’s Eve will include two dinner options, at DUNE and Ocean Blu, followed by live music, dancing and revelry on the beautiful resort lawn and Ocean Pool deck. Guests will enjoy a complimentary Champagne toast at midnight and a Bahamian Junkanoo band will lead guests to the “afterglow” at DUNE Bar, with continued live music entertainment, as well as views of the dazzling fireworks display over the ocean.

New Year’s Day Brunch: Guests can enjoy a delicious New Year’s Day brunch at DUNE, featuring omelette station, seafood bar, pasta station, salad station, carving station, and traditional Caribbean foods such as jerk spiced chicken breast, roasted grouper, Bahamian peas and rice and Bahamian macaroni and cheese.

Additional Activities:
-Brunch at DUNE, every Sunday, 12:30pm-3pm; reservations required.
-Daily continental buffet style breakfast at DUNE, Nov. 26, 2024-Jan. 3, 2025
-Sunrise Smoothies, daily on the DUNE deck, 7am-10am, Nov. 26, 2024-Jan. 3, 2025
-Straw Market, with Bahamian handmade creations, Friday-Sunday in the Hartford Courtyard
-Daily fitness classes include Circuit Training, Hard Strength Sculpting, Total Body, Bands & Body Weights, Badminton, Tabata Cardio, Hatha Yoga, and more
-Junkanoo entertainment on December 28, 2024 and January 3, 2025
-Cigar rolling and rum tastings every Thursday
-Mixology classes with Keith Cash, Nov. 28, Dec. 12 and Dec. 26
-Kalik & Conch tasting at the beach, complimentary, Nov. 26, Dec. 10, Dec. 24
-More exciting happenings to be announced!

For reservations and more information, visit www.fourseasons.com/oceanclub or call 1-800-819-5053.

SOURCE The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort, Bahamas