Market Watch For April 2008: Material Demand

May 12, 2008
Steel in short supply while prices for natural gas and sulfuric acid move up for sixth straight month.

According to the April 2008 ISM Manufacturing Report on Business (ROB) released on May 1, more than 20 commodities registered higher prices including two that have now done so every month for half a year. Commodities are also starting to turn up on the short supply list, with caustic soda making a solo appearance in the March ROB. The new report finally adds steel to the list.

Commodities Up In Price

Aluminum (3)
Aluminum Extrusions (2)
Caustic Soda (2)
Copper (3)
Copper Laden Products (2)
Corn
Corn Syrup
Diesel Fuel (2)
Fuel Surcharges (2)
Gasoline
High Density Polyethylene
Natural Gas (6)
Polypropylene
Propane
Resins
Solvents
Soybean Oil
Stainless Steel -- Sheet
Steel (4)
Steel -- Cold Rolled
Sulfuric Acid (6)
Transportation Costs

Commodities Down In Price

Methanol is the only commodity reported down in price.

Commodities In Short Supply

Caustic Soda (2)
Steel

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

Source: April 2008 Manufacturing ISM Report on Business

See Also

Popular Sponsored Recommendations

Beware Extreme Software

Sept. 24, 2023
As a manufacturer, you understand the importance of staying ahead of the curve and being proactive in your approach to technology. With the rapid pace of change in the industry...

Digitally Transforming Data and Processes With Product Lifecycle Management

Oct. 29, 2023
Manufacturers face increasing challenges in product development as they strive to consistently deliver improved results. Discover how industry leaders are improving time-to-market...

Are You Positioned To Tackle Supply Chain Risk?

Sept. 20, 2023
Supply chain disruption is here to stay, but you can keep ahead of potential issues — and identify new opportunities — by regularly assessing your suppliers. Download our supplier...

Four Keys To Operational Excellence

Sept. 20, 2023
As manufacturers face supply chain disruption and shrinking margins, increasing operations performance is critical. Our smart manufacturing guidebook can help you achieve the ...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of IndustryWeek, create an account today!