Transcript:

INTRO By Cris Young: Hello, fastener enthusiasts and industry professionals, Cris Young here LIVE in the FastenerTV studio! Welcome to your weekly roundup of the latest in fasteners—industry news, trends, upcoming events, and scholarships. Let’s dive into this week’s episode of In the News with Fastener News Desk!

HOST: Lisa Kleinhandler

Thank you, Cris, I’m Lisa Kleinhandler, Editor-in-Chief at Fastener News Desk reporting the latest news making headlines the week of January 13, 2025.

Watch it now on FastenerTV at YouTube (7:45)


IN THE NEWS

RFK Racing and primary partner Fastenal Company (Nasdaq: FAST) will celebrate their 15th season of partnership in 2025. Fastenal, which recently extended its relationship with RFK, is one of the longest-tenured brands in NASCAR. Since 2010, Fastenal has been a primary partner for NASCAR Champion Chris Buescher and his No. 17 Ford. ReAD MORE: 

Fastenal and RFK Racing Celebrate 15 Years of NASCAR Partnership


The Fastener Distributor Index (FDI) survey for December 2024 rose modestly to 48.1 last month, after sinking to 46.4 in November, seasonally adjusted. Sentiment dipped slightly but remained positive as the Forward-Looking Indicator (FLI) read in at 51.4 vs 52.3 in November

The seasonally adjusted Fastener Distributor Index (FDI) moved slightly higher reading 48.1 in December but remained below 50, reflecting a significant retrenchment in the sales index which dropped significantly to 36.5 versus 48.9 in November). This month’s Forward-Looking Indicator (FLI) remained in expansionary levels, inching lower m/m to 51.4 vs 52.3 in November. Tune in to Fully Threaded Radio episode 208 for further commentary on the December FDI. The FDI is brought to you by the FCH Sourcing Network. Read full report:

Fastener Distributor Index (FDI) | December 2024


Economic activity in the manufacturing sector contracted in December for the ninth consecutive month and the 25th time in the last 26 months, say the nation’s supply executives in the latest Manufacturing ISM® Report On Business®. The U.S. manufacturing sector contracted for the ninth consecutive month in December, as the Manufacturing PMI® registered 49.3 percent, 0.9 percentage point higher compared to the 48.4 percent reported in November. Read full report:

Manufacturing PMI® at 49.3%; December 2024 Manufacturing ISM® Report On Business®


Birmingham Fastener and Anchor Bolt & Supply Announces Strategic Partnership. Anchor Bolt & Supply, a trusted supplier of high-quality fasteners and industrial hardware since 1952 announced that it’s partnering with Birmingham Fastener, the leading manufacturer and distributor of American-made fasteners. The collaboration combines the strength of both companies to give customers in West Texas better quality, service and inventory. Read more:

Birmingham Fastener and Anchor Bolt & Supply Announces Strategic Partnership


Endries International Inc., a leader in fastener, Class-C components and fulfillment solutions announced it will be opening a new state-of-the-art distribution center in Fort Worth, Texas. This significant expansion will double the current capacity, increasing square footage to 65,000 sq/ft, and reinforces Endries’ commitment to providing world-class service to our customers across the region. Read more: 

Endries International Inc. Plans Expansion with New Distribution Center in Texas


R&S Industrial Supplies announced the acquisition of SASCO Fasteners. This strategic move enables R&S to expand its footprint while continuing to provide exceptional service and high-quality products. By combining the strengths of both organizations, R&S is well-positioned to enhance operational efficiency and customer support across the region. Read more: 

R&S Industrial Supplies Announces Acquisition of SASCO Fasteners


AFC Industries has acquired Ontario based Irwin Industrial (www.irwinind.com), terms of the deal were not disclosed. Founded in 1970, IRWIN has become a trusted partner for manufacturers across Canada, specializing in customized vendor-managed inventory programs and supply chain solutions for unique components, IRWIN delivers tailored solutions that drive efficiency for customers across a broad range of industries. Read more: 

AFC Industries Expands Canadian Footprint with Acquisition of Irwin Industrial


FASTENER INDUSTRY VIP’S


Endries International celebrates 55 years of excellence!


ARaymond celebrating 160 Years!


FASTENER INDUSTRY EVENTS – 2025


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MAFDA Annual Top Golf Event Thursday, February 27th from 6:30 – 9:30 pm in Mount Laurel Township, NJ. Tickets are $135 per person which includes food and open bar. If you would like to RSVP, please email Freddy Barr at fbarr@stelfast.com. More info & registration: MAFDA.com


Get ready for the 2025 Pac-West Spring Conference and Tabletop Show, March 12-14, 2025 in Anaheim, CA. An exceptional event packed with industry-leading education sessions, a dynamic tabletop show, and exciting optional activities—all designed for professional growth and networking with industry peers. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to connect, learn, and grow with others in the industry. Register: pac-West.org


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Spring Conference 2025 | April 29 – May 1 | Saddlebrook Resort Tampa, FL

More info: TheSEFA.com


2025 NFDA Annual Meeting and ESPS | June 11-13, 2025 | Le Meridien Charlotte. Charlotte, NC  

SAVE THE DATE:

More info coming soon: MWFA.net


The stories featured in this week’s episode of IN THE NEWS can be found at Fastener News Desk or in our social feeds @FastenerNews 

If you would like to share your company’s news or events contact me, lisa@fastenernewsdesk.com


Thanks for tuning in to this week’s episode of ‘IN THE NEWS’ with Fastener News Desk.

Until next week, be well and keep it fastenating!


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RELATED CONTENT:

Letter From the Editor-in-Chief: Celebrating 15 Years of Fastener News Desk

IN THE NEWS with Fastener News Desk the Week of January 6, 2025

 

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