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It’s ‘IN THE NEWS’ with Fastener News Desk the Week of May 23rd, 2022

Watch now on YouTube Channel FastenerTV: (7 min 25 sec)

In Fastener News…

Threadheads and Fastenerds you won’t want to miss the NEW episode of the fastener industry’s favorite podcast Fully Threaded Radio. Here from hosts Brian Musker and Eric Dudas. As Brian returns from down under, the FDI cools and the fastener world reconsiders its supply chain.  Industry veteran Preston Boyd of the Industrial Fasteners Institute describes how his organization is reaching out to distributors to reintroduce domestic suppliers.  Scanwell Logistics senior expeditor Chris Donnell explains a wide range of pressures on imports that suggests no improvement for inbound shipments in the foreseeable future. All this and more at FullyThreaded.com

SPONSOR:

The International Fastener Expo the Largest B2B expo of Industrial Fasteners and Tooling & Machinery in North America. Since 1981, the event continues to bring together the manufacturers and master distributors of fasteners and other related products and services with distributors and sales agents in the entire supply and distribution chain. Held annually in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA, the event consists of an all-day conference program presented by endorsing fastener associations. Be sure to save the dates: October 17-19th, 2022. For more info go to FastenerShows.com

Fastener News Desk has put together our Top 5 Things-To-Do to Get Ready for the International Fastener Expo! Our #1 Thing-To-Do is nominate a deserving colleague for the Fastener Hall of Fame and Young Fastener Professional Awards. Check out the rest of our Things-To-Do list featured at Fastener News Desk! 

In Fastener Event News…

Pac-West Fastener Association will be having their After Hours get together this week in Denver, CO, Stop by and meet other people in the fastener industry and expand your professional network. Go to Pac-West.org for more info.

On Tuesday June 7^th, The Fastener Training Institute and the Industrial Fastener Institute will have their webinar Fastener Training Class, Workmanship – The Impact of Imperfections and Surface Discontinuities. This two-hour webinar covers common cold-heading and fastener imperfections and surface discontinuities, starting with those stemming from the raw material and progressing through the manufacturing processes of heading and rolling. For more info go to FastenerTraining.org

The National Fastener Distributors Association will host the 2022 NFDA Annual Meeting and Executive Sales Planning Sessions® (ESPS®). The meeting will take place at the Embassy Suites in Downtown Minneapolis, MN. June 21 – 23, 2022. For more info go to NFDA-Fastener.org

The Fastener Training Institute’s Fastener Training Week in-person training class is scheduled for August 22-26 in Chicago. This advanced technical training program is offered in partnership with Industrial Fastener Institute and is for fastener distributors, manufacturers, and end-users.

Fastener Training Week, hosted by the Mid-West Fastener Association, offers five intensive days of education and plant tours as part of the FTI Certified Fastener Specialist™ (CFS) advanced technical training program. After completing this industry training in a small group environment and passing a final exam, attendees are eligible for the Certified Fastener Specialist™ (CFS) designation. FastenerTraining.org

Save The Week for the Midwest Fastener Association’s FSTNR WEEK! Happening August 21-26th. Get involved in a Bed Building Event that benefits the Sleep in Heavenly Peace Organization, plus A Fastener seminar, golf outing and lots more! 👉 Registration and more info: http://MWFA.net

Twitter: @MWFA_News @ShpBeds

🏆 The International Fastener Expo Fastener Hall of Fame recognizes professionals who have made significant and enduring contributions to the fastener industry. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Hall of Fame Awards! Who do you think should be honored with this prestigious award this year? To nominate go to FastenerShows.com. The deadline to submit nominations is July 30th. Twitter: @FastenerShow

The stories featured in this week’s episode of IN THE NEWS can be found at Fastener News Desk or in our Twitter feed @FastenerNews and on LinkedIn in the Fastener News Group!

Fastener News Desk is preparing for the grand opening of the Fastener Museum! The online museum will feature a collection of industry memorabilia that dates back over the past decades. We welcome your fastener company to share individual digital images of your memorabilia with us to add to the Fastener Museum and help create the largest online collection of fastener related history.

SPONSOR: Product Genius Technology. Enhance your website customer experience with the best view for industrial product search. The past two years have certainly been a digital wake-up call for distributors and manufacturers. B2B buyers’ behaviors have gone full on digital! Digitizing data and product information is key to the beginnings of your business’s digital transformation.  Is your product data ready for eCommerce and a great user experience.

Product Genius Technology’s services include, data cleaning and preparation, consulting, and strategizing. Contact ProductGeniusTechnology.com or call 1-800-fasteners to find out how to get started today.

If you would like to share your company’s events, news or sponsor an upcoming episode of IN THE NEWS or would like to add to the Fastener Museum 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, be safe and Keep it Fastenating.

Tags:

#FastenerExpo #FastenerNews #Fasteners #COVID #SupplyChain #Taiwan #distribution #fastenernews #fasteners #distribution #industrial $FAST #fastenernews #fasteners #workforce #training #fasteners #fastenernews #FSTNRweek

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IN THE NEWS with Fastener News Desk the Week of May 16th, 2022

Fastener TV

The International Fastener Expo will be celebrating the 41st edition of the most prestigious of all fastener industry events October 17-19th, 2022. Attendees from throughout the world will attend the International Fastener Expo to network and find new products and suppliers. An IFE survey found that 77% of attendees agree that the International Fastener Expo is a “must attend” event. Why? Because the International Fastener Expo is the most comprehensive B2B trade show that draws together large and small distributors, master distributors, and independent sales reps with fastener manufacturers, tooling and machinery manufacturers from around the world. It is the largest industrial fastener and specialty fastener tooling show in North America where attendees and suppliers connect to network, build new relationships, nurture current relationships, and ultimately do business. All in one easy place; all within three days.

Are you ready to participate in the largest fastener industry event in No. America? Whether you’re a seasoned IFE exhibitor, attendee, new distributor looking for product lines, new exhibitor looking to develop relationships, or a B2B buyer looking for the latest in fastening products or a new distributor to help with your supply chain and manufacturing needs, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to stay in-the-know about all the exclusive expo offers, events and announcements. 

Make sure to sign up to receive expo and registration email updates, click here.

Here are Fastener News Desk’s Top 5 Things-To-Do to prepare for an outstanding #IFE2022 experience!

No. 1-

Nominate a colleague for one of these prestigious awards Fastener Hall of Fame & The Young Fastener Professional of the Year Awards

2022 marks the 40th Anniversary of the IFE Fastener Hall of Fame which recognizes professionals who have made significant and enduring contributions to the industrial fastener industry on a national or global scale. Individuals selected for induction will join other honored fastener industry members. The recipient(s) will be recognized at a special event during the International Fastener Expo and receive a commemorative plaque.

“IFE is honored to once again, conduct the prestigious Hall of Fame and Young Fastener Professional awards at our 41st edition this October 17th, 2022. We’re thrilled to have this once-a-year opportunity, to recognize and celebrate individuals who have made a lasting impact on the industry, served the community, and have demonstrated true leadership”.– Morgan Wilson, Group Show Director

See past Hall of Fame Winners here. The deadline to nominate is July 30, 2022.

Flashback to the 2019 Fastener Hall of Fame Awards Ceremony…Click here.

No. 2-

Sign up for the 2022 IFE Golf Tournament!

What better place to drive business than on the course? Join IFE and fellow members of the fastener industry for some friendly competition.

No. 5-

It’s time to reserve your room! Hotel Bookings are now open for International Fastener Expo 2022!

Benefits of booking within the official housing block include:

• Discounted Rates for guests

• Flexible cancellation policies

• Exclusive promotions and perks

• Discounted rates on upgrades

• Reservation relocation protection

• Contribute to the event

MAKE YOUR RESERVATION Click here

The BEST BOOTH AWARDS are BACK! 

Fastener News Desk’s BEST BOOTH AWARDS are back for the 2022 International Fastener Expo. It’s game-on exhibitors! Get ready to WOW the judges and attendees with your Best Booth yet! 

About International Fastener Expo

The International Fastener Expo (IFE) is the largest and most diverse gathering of fastener and industrial professionals in North America. Founded in 1981 it serves all reaches of the supply chain, from manufacturer to distributor to OEMs, and features nearly 70 product categories. With over 650 vendors and more than 5,000 attendees from 30+ nations, the International Fastener Expo delivers industry‐leading content and facilitates vital industry connections at their annual three‐day show in Las Vegas, Nevada, the entertainment and trade show capital of North America. For more information on IFE, visit www.fastenershows.com.

About Emerald Expositions

International Fastener Expo is owned and operated by Emerald, a leader in building dynamic, market-driven business-to-business platforms that integrate live events with a broad array of industry insights, digital tools, and data-focused solutions to create uniquely rich experiences. As true partners, we at Emerald strive to build our customers’ businesses by creating opportunities that inspire, amaze, and deliver breakthrough results. With over 140 events each year, our teams are creators and connectors who are thoroughly immersed in the industries we serve and are committed to supporting the communities in which we operate. For more information, please visit http://www.emeraldx.com

RELATED CONTENT:

IFE Fastener Hall of Fame Seeking Nominations

FND Wrap-up and Photo Gallery From IFE 2019

Hall of Fame, International Fastener Expo

I’m Lisa Kleinhandler, Editor-in-Chief at Fastener News Desk

It’s IN THE NEWS the Week of May 16th, 2022

Watch now on our YouTube Channel FastenerTV: (7 min 1 sec)

In Fastener News…

Fastener Fair USA rolls into Detroit, MI Tomorrow. Show dates are: May 17-19^th!

Also in Detroit is the RAPID + TCT event Begins tomorrow and runs through the-19^th. The event is largest gathering of additive manufacturing professionals, enthusiasts, and trailblazers. Terry Wohlers, additive manufacturing expert and founder of Wohlers Associates, powered by @ASTMIntl, will present top industry trends each day. Gain insights into the future of AM driven by world-class research and commercialization efforts at the RAPID event. To get in the conversation use #RAPIDevent.

In Fastener News from abroad….

The Würth Group world market leader in the field of assembly & fastening materials announced that they have achieved a new record with an operating result of more than 1B euros (EUR 1,270 million) for their 2021 fiscal year.

In Fastener Acquisition News

An Aerospace Fastener Stocking Distributor and Tooling Service Provider come together to provide customers with a complete fastener solution. Adept Fasteners Announced the Acquisition of Innovative Tooling Services. – Adept Fasteners, a privately owned distributor of aerospace fasteners, announces the acquisition of Innovative Tooling Services to strengthen Adept’s position in the market as a leader in aerospace fastener solutions. Innovative Tooling Services, founded in 1986, provides the aerospace industry with tools and tool repair.

FND would like to thank our SPONSOR:

The International Fastener Expo the Largest B2B expo of Industrial Fasteners and Tooling & Machinery in North America. Since 1981, the event continues to bring together the manufacturers and master distributors of fasteners and other related products and services with distributors and sales agents in the entire supply and distribution chain. Held annually in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA, the event consists of an all-day conference program presented by endorsing fastener associations. Be sure to save the dates: October 17-19th, 2022. For more info go to FastenerShows.com

In Fastener Event News…

The Fastener Training Institute announced its next Fastener Training Week in-person training class is scheduled for August 22-26 in Chicago. This advanced technical training program is offered in partnership with IFI and is for fastener distributors, manufacturers, and end-users.

Fastener Training Week, hosted by the Mid-West Fastener Association, offers five intensive days of education and plant tours as part of the FTI Certified Fastener Specialist™ (CFS) advanced technical training program. After completing this industry training in a small group environment and passing a final exam, attendees are eligible for the Certified Fastener Specialist™ (CFS) designation.

Save The Week for the Midwest Fastener Association’s FSTNR WEEK! Happening August 21-26th. Get involved in a Bed Building Event that benefits the Sleep in Heavenly Peace Organization, plus A Fastener seminar, golf outing and lots more! 👉 Registration and more info: http://MWFA.net

Twitter: @MWFA_News @ShpBeds

🏆 The International Fastener Expo Fastener Hall of Fame recognizes professionals who have made significant and enduring contributions to the fastener industry. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Hall of Fame Awards! Who do you think should be honored with this prestigious award this year? To nominate go to FastenerShows.com. The deadline to submit nominations is July 30th. Twitter: @FastenerShow

The stories featured in this week’s episode of IN THE NEWS can be found at Fastener News Desk or in our Twitter feed @FastenerNews and on LinkedIn in the Fastener News Group!

Fastener News Desk is preparing for the grand opening of the Fastener Museum! The online museum will feature a collection of industry memorabilia that dates back over the past decades. We welcome your fastener company to share individual digital images of your memorabilia with us to add to the Fastener Museum and help create the largest online collection of fastener related history.

This week’s episode has been sponsored by Product Genius Technology. Enhance your website customer experience with the best view for industrial product search. The past two years have certainly been a digital wake-up call for distributors and manufacturers. B2B buyers’ behaviors have gone full on digital! Digitizing data and product information is key to the beginnings of your business’s digital transformation.  Is your product data ready for eCommerce and a great user experience.

Product Genius Technology’s services include, data cleaning and preparation, consulting, and strategizing. Contact ProductGeniusTechnology.com or call 1-800-fasteners to find out how to get started today.

If you would like to share your company’s events, news or sponsor an upcoming episode of IN THE NEWS or would like to add to the Fastener Museum, 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, be safe and Keep it Fastenating.

Tags:#FastenerExpo #FastenerNews #Fasteners #COVID #SupplyChain #Taiwan #distribution #fastenernews #fasteners #distribution #industrial $FAST #fastenernews #fasteners #workforce #training #fasteners #fastenernews #FSTNRweek

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IN THE NEWS with Fastener News Desk the Week of May 9th, 2022

IN THE NEWS with Fastener News Desk the Week of May 2nd, 2022

Fastener TV, Hall of Fame

May 09, 2022 09:00 ET | Source: GHK Capital Partners LP

GREENWICH, Conn., May 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — GHK Capital Partners LP (“GHK”), a leading middle-market private equity firm, announced today that it completed the acquisition of Auveco (the “Company”), based in Cold Spring, KY. Founded in 1916, Auveco is a leading master distributor of automotive fasteners to the body hardware aftermarket as well as general industrial fasteners used in maintenance, repair, and operations applications in North America. Terms of the acquisition were not disclosed.

GHK’s acquisition of Auveco will enable the Company to pursue future organic and inorganic growth initiatives as it continues to expand and evolve its product portfolio, supplier base, and customer-focused sales strategy. All key senior executives will remain with the Company.

Gil Klemann, Managing Partner of GHK, said, “We are eager to begin our partnership with Auveco, which over many decades has established a clear leadership position and a highly attractive, differentiated model in the auto aftermarket and general industrial fasteners space. As GHK’s fifth platform investment, Auveco represents a highly attractive investment opportunity in the specialty distribution space led by an exceptional management team who is well-positioned to drive outsized organic growth.”

“We are very excited to be partnering with GHK, who shares our vision for the future growth of the Company, as well as our deep commitment to our customers, employees and supplier partners,” said Auveco CEO Jeff Gilkinson. “The combination of our comprehensive product portfolio, unparalleled customer service and industry insight in partnership with GHK’s strategic and financial expertise will further strengthen our ability to deliver for all of our stakeholders. We are immensely proud of the Company’s achievements over the past century, and we believe this partnership positions us well for the future.”

Auveco was advised by Lincoln International and Fifth Third and represented by Koley Jessen P.C., L.L.O. GHK was advised by Piper Sandler & Co. and represented by Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP.

About Auveco

Founded in 1916 and Headquartered in Cold Spring, KY, Auveco is a leading distributor of fasteners to the automotive body hardware aftermarket and general industrial maintenance, repair and operations space. The Company sells to thousands of wholesale distribution customers who subsequently service hundreds of thousands of collision centers, repair shops, and dealerships located throughout North America. Over its more than 100-year history, Auveco has established a strong reputation for supplying a superior selection of quality products through excellent logistics and distribution capabilities. To learn more about Auveco, please visit www.auveco.com.

About GHK Capital Partners

GHK is a leading middle-market private equity firm focused on making control investments in industrial companies across North America. GHK targets established businesses with strong free cash flow margins and multiple avenues for organic growth and operational improvement.

This content was issued through the press release distribution service at Newswire.com.

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IN THE NEWS with Fastener News Desk the Week of May 9th, 2022

Birmingham Fastener Announces Acquisition of Champion Sales and Manufacturing

Manufacturers’ M&A sets stage for sweeping change

Acquisitions, Featured

Würth Group with record sales and record operating result, investment in research and development

Digital Transformation, Featured

It’s ‘IN THE NEWS’ with Fastener News Desk the Week of May 9th, 2022

Watch now on our YouTube Channel FastenerTV: (9 min 6 sec.)

In Fastener News…

The Fastener Distributor Index (FDI) survey for April 2022 was released today.  The FDI softened last month coming in at 52.6 versus the March reading of 57.2, seasonally adjusted. Also moderating, the Forward-Looking Indicator (FLI) dipped to 55.1 after jumping to 65.4 the previous month.  While optimism did cool, the marker remains strong and marks the 23rd consecutive month of positive (+50.0) outlook.

Please share the FDI with your fellow North American fastener distributors and encourage them to participate.  Your help keeps the index strong: www.fastenersclearinghouse.com/fch/main.nsf/fFastenerDistributorIndex

FND would like to thank our SPONSOR:

The International Fastener Expo the Largest B2B expo of Industrial Fasteners and Tooling & Machinery in North America. Since 1981, the event continues to bring together the manufacturers and master distributors of fasteners, precision formed parts, fastener machinery & tooling and other related products and services with distributors and sales agents in the entire supply and distribution chain. Held annually in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA, the event consists of an all-day conference program presented by endorsing fastener associations. Be sure to save the dates: October 17-19th, 2022. For more info go to FastenerShows.com

Birmingham Fastener one of the nation’s most prominent fastener manufacturers announced that Young Fastener Professional, Baron Yarborough will be joining their family of companies as the General Manager of their recently acquired Champion Manufacturing.

Twitter: @BhamFast

Optimas Solutions announced that they have a new Chief Information Officer. Paul Schorr will lead the technology strategy for Optimas Solutions and oversee all aspects of IT for the company. Under his guidance, Optimas plans to strategically invest in technology that drives business efficiencies, fuels growth, and brings further innovation to bear for their customers. Read more about Paul Schorr and his plans to accelerate Optimas’s Forward Faster transformation at Optimas.com

In Fastener Acquisition News…

GHK Capital Partners a leading middle-market private equity firm, announced today that it completed the acquisition of Auveco (the “Company”), based in Cold Spring, KY. Founded in 1916, Auveco is a leading master distributor of automotive fasteners as well as general industrial fasteners used in maintenance, repair, and operations applications. Terms of the acquisition were not disclosed.

GHK’s acquisition of Auveco will enable the Company to pursue future organic and inorganic growth initiatives as it continues to expand and evolve its product portfolio, supplier base, and customer-focused sales strategy. All key senior executives will remain with the Company.

PrimeSource Brands a North American provider of specialty branded residential building products backed by Clearlake Capital Group announced today that it has acquired Axxis, LLC a provider of fastening tools and collated fasteners. The transaction is PrimeSource’s fourth acquisition during Clearlake’s ownership. Financial terms were not disclosed.

In Fastener News from abroad Bloomberg reported that Vescovini Group is planning an initial public offering in Milan that could value the maker of industrial fasteners at as much as $2 billion. Vescovini manufactures more than 1.3 billion industrial fasteners — such as nuts, bolts and axles. The company supplies its products to the automotive, construction and agricultural machinery sectors and generates annual revenue of $235 million euros or $248 million.

In Distribution News…

Lawson Products Announces A Name Change to Distribution Solutions Group, Inc. A Best-in-class, specialty distribution company, which includes operating companies, Lawson Products, TestEquity and Gexpro Services. They will be changing their ticker symbol and be trading on the NASDAQ under symbol “DSGR” commencing Monday, May 9, 2022.

In Fastener Event News…

Save The Week for the Midwest Fastener Association’s FSTNR WEEK! Happening August 21-26th. Get involved at a Bed Building Event that benefits Sleep in Heavenly Peace, A Fastener seminar, golf outing and more! 👉 Registration and more info: http://MWFA.net

Twitter: @MWFA_News @ShpBeds

 Stay in the know about all the latest industry events at FastenerNewsDesk.com

In 3D Printing News…

Würth Additive Group Hit the Road Again with their 3D DEMO DAYS Tour!

Join Wurth as they travel across North America to showcase their entire spectrum of 3D printing and digital inventory capabilities. Their next Tour stop is on May 11^th & 13th in Libertyville, IL

Check out their tour schedule to see when they’ll be in your area! For more info go to wurthindustry.com

🏆 The International Fastener Expo Fastener Hall of Fame recognizes professionals who have made significant and enduring contributions to the fastener industry. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Hall of Fame Awards! Who do you think should be honored with this prestigious award this year? To nominate go to FastenerShows.com. The deadline to submit nominations is July 30th.

Twitter: @FastenerShow

The stories featured in this week’s episode of IN THE NEWS can be found at Fastener News Desk or in our Twitter feed @FastenerNews and on LinkedIn in the Fastener News Group!

Fastener News Desk is preparing for the grand opening of the Fastener Museum! The online museum will feature a collection of industry memorabilia that dates back over the past decades. We welcome your fastener company to share individual digital images of your memorabilia with us to add to the Fastener Museum and help create the largest online collection of fastener related history.

This week’s episode has been sponsored by Product Genius Technology. Enhance your website customer experience with the best view for industrial product search. The past two years have certainly been a digital wake-up call for distributors and manufacturers. B2B buyers’ behaviors have gone full on digital! Digitizing data and product information is key to the beginnings of your business’s digital transformation.  Is your product data ready for eCommerce and a great user experience.

Product Genius Technology’s services include, data cleaning and preparation, consulting, and strategizing. Contact ProductGeniusTechnology.com or call 1-800-fasteners to find out how to get started today.

If you would like to share your company’s events, news or sponsor an upcoming episode of IN THE NEWS or would like to add to the Fastener Museum 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, be safe and Keep it Fastenating.

Tags:

#FastenerExpo #FastenerNews #Fasteners #COVID #SupplyChain #Taiwan #distribution #fastenernews #fasteners #distribution #industrial $FAST #fastenernews #fasteners #workforce #training #fasteners #fastenernews #FSTNRweek

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IN THE NEWS with Fastener News Desk the Week of May 2nd, 2022

IN THE NEWS with Fastener News Desk the Week of April 25th, 2022

Fastener TV, Featured

Fastener Distributor Index (FDI) survey for April, 2022. 

The FDI softened last month coming in at 52.6 versus the March reading of 57.2, seasonally adjusted. Also moderating, the Forward Looking Indicator (FLI) dipped to 55.1 after jumping to 65.4 the previous month.  While optimism did cool, the marker remains strong and marks the 23rd consecutive month of positive (+50.0) outlook.

Key Takeaway:

The April seasonally adjusted Fastener Distributor Index (FDI) dipped to 52.6, lower m/m, primarily on softer selling conditions. The overwhelming theme among participants commentary and across the various components of the FDI was growth but slowing growth amid material shortages, spring break, and reduced “panic buying.” Pricing continues to be on the rise, particularly in stainless steel in the wake of Russia/Ukraine. The Forward-Looking Indicator (FLI) also declined m/m to 55.1 on a less optimistic six month outlook. Net, we believe growth and overall market conditions were still strong in April but clearly moderated relative to March.

READ THE FULL MARCH 2022 REPORT:

FDI_Report_April_2022

We encourage all North American fastener distributors to take part in the FDI. If you are interested in being a more active part of the fastener industry, you can apply to add your company to the FDI survey group. Complete the “Request an Invitation to Participate” form by clicking here. Once verified, you will receive login ID and password information and you will be notified by email every month when the survey period has been opened. – Fastener News Desk

About the Fastener Distributor Index (FDI).

The Fastener Distributor Index (FDI) was developed as a service to the fastener industry by the FCH Sourcing Network in 2012 to be a new benchmark for the fastener industry.

The FDI is a monthly survey of North American fastener distributors, conducted with the FCH Sourcing Network and Baird with support from the National Fastener Distributors Association. It offers insights into current fastener industry trends/outlooks. Similarly, the Forward-Looking Indicator (FLI) is based on a weighted average of four forward-looking inputs from the FDI survey. This indicator is designed to provide directional perspective on future expectations for fastener market conditions. As diffusion indexes, values above 50.0 signal strength, while readings below 50.0 signal weakness. Over time, results should be directly relevant to Fastenal (FAST) and broadly relevant to other industrial distributors such as W.W. Grainger (GWW) and MSC Industrial (MSM).

The FDI Survey website is a resource than can be accessed by anyone, but it can only be updated by registered users during the monthly open survey period, which occurs during the last week of each month.

Tune in to episode 175 “Once you’re in…” on the Fully Threaded Radio podcast.

Contact:

Eric Dudas

O: 877.332.7836

C: 630.532.2442

www.fastenersclearinghouse.com

RELATED CONTENT:

FASTENER DISTRIBUTOR INDEX (FDI) | March 2022

Fastener Distributor Index

FND Q  & A with Cris A. Young

Guest: John Buglino, Director of Marketing, Optessa

We have with us today John Buglino from Optessa, Inc. I had noticed that John and I attend many of the same online manufacturing events, groups, and podcasts. That made it imperative for me to sit down and talk with him regarding the state of the industry and how his company is making their customers more successful in their business efforts. John is the Director of Marketing and Sales for Optessa which has a patented APS (advanced planning and scheduling) software used by many of the leading US manufacturing companies.

Welcome to FND John.

Please share with us a little about yourself and how you got into manufacturing and also technology?

Thank you, Cris! It is great connecting with you and sharing more with the FND community. I got my start in manufacturing about 4 years back when I took a role within a microelectronics manufacturer serving customers in the aerospace, defense, telecom, and medical markets. My role there was like my current role with Optessa, however it was marketing and selling hardware as opposed to software. In February 2020 I joined Optessa as their Director of Marketing.

Who is Optessa?

Optessa is an advanced planning and scheduling software utilized by top tier manufacturers around the world. Since 2001, Optessa has provided manufacturers with the only planning, sequencing, and scheduling software that guarantees results using patented algorithms that adapt to any challenge without extra coding.

What is APS software?

APS stands for advanced planning and scheduling. It is a digital solution that assists manufacturers with the creation of production plans and schedules by considering business resources and constraints.

How is the technology utilized?

This software is used to create production plans and schedules based on inputs and data supplied by the customer. These inputs can include material inventories, customer orders, labor resources, and machines.

What problems does it solve?

There is no shortage of problems the right APS software can solve for a manufacturer. Key business objectives include order fulfillment, lean operations, improved material stability, maximize throughput, and increase productivity.

What types of manufacturing companies are using APS software? 

Too few are, if at all, using APS software. It is tough to break the reliance on manual processes, homegrown systems, or excel spreadsheets to manage the production plans and schedules. Those that are using it, and properly, can see returns to their business in a matter of a few weeks or months.

John, we recently got to chat about how important technology and automation is now and will be in the future of manufacturing. What are you seeing out there with regards to the adoption of technology and automated business processes in the industrial world? Part of our discussion focused on several of the issues that today businesses face such as workforce, supply chain, machine maintenance, and inventory concerns.

Too many are turning to and then quickly blaming technology when things go wrong – or the issue remains after implementing the technology. There is a high adoption of and use of technology more so now than in the last 3 years, however issues remain. I would argue that the issues are stemming from the lack of understanding from the individual sourcing a solution and the processes needed to improve the technology.

Please share with our audience what Optessa does that will assist in overcoming the challenges that many companies are facing today. What benefits could a business expect after integrating Optessa into their business processes?

Most of the companies out there have existing software applications already in use and they don’t want to replace them. Optessa can be deployed as a standalone solution or, most common, as a complementary software solution to existing systems. With the ability to utilize any digital input from the customer, an ERP or excel spreadsheet, the Optessa team will model your entire production environment in our software. Users of the software will be able to work in the Optessa software just as easily as they do with existing systems or spreadsheets. The Optessa software takes all the available inputs from the customer to generate the optimal production plan and schedule based on the specific KPIs given to us by the customer. The software can account for limitless features, functions, routings, and constraints to achieve the desired result(s) of the customer. Optessa delivers these feasible plans and schedules in a fraction of the time, taking minutes instead of hours/days, through other methods.

How easy is it to integrate Optessa’s product into the tech stack?

The integration process is easy considering you have a full team of application specialists working to ensure a seamless connection from Optessa to any legacy systems or data sources in place. If an integration is not possible, the Optessa software can receive inputs through manual file sharing or shared tables with their customers.

What if a company has multiple locations?

Multiple locations, no matter the distance, can be accounted for and included in an optimal plan and schedule for our customers. Several of our customers have complex manufacturing routings that require partial goods to be moved from location to location to arrive at a finished good. The Optessa software can account for transit times and will include these times when generating the plan and schedule for our customers.

How quickly can Optessa’s software adapt to a change in production, workforce, or materials disruptions?

With the Optessa software our customers can replan and reschedule in seconds, as disruptions arise. On top of the speed, the software engine will generate the new outputs with a bias towards the original plan and schedule to further reduce any disruptions. Through the software’s report center you can generate a report of the original output versus the new output to understand the downstream impacts of the disruptions.

I read in a recent article where Optessa was referred to as an Industry 4.0 building block and how that could open up new and different opportunities for companies utilizing your software. Can you give more details on how this is possible?

The Optessa software is a building block, more so a foundational piece, when speaking about Industry 4.0.  Our team feels that feasible production plans and schedules, which can only be generated using our software, serve as the foundation of a stable supply chain. Optessa holds the patent for optimization – meaning all our results are guaranteed to be mathematically the best.

What sets Optessa apart from the other available products out there?

There are two things here – First, Optessa is the only provider in the APS software space that will model your entire production environment; second Optessa is the only provider that mathematically guarantees the results given to our customers.

Most of our readers are in the fastener industry how can they apply Optessa’s software in their businesses?

The first step in applying our software is to define your problem. The software is versatile and can be configured to solve nearly every manufacturing problem out of the box. It is the duty of our customer to identify the problem, gather the necessary data (can even be partial or incomplete), and quantify what solving this problem means to their company.

What is your best one piece of advice for companies sitting on the fence regarding the updating of their software and business processes?

Cris, my piece of advice is to start a conversation with me or any member of the Optessa team to begin your APS journey. Like their manufacturing environments and processes, our software is complex. There are a number of conversations that need to happen to make sure we can deliver on the expectations of our customers, align their teams, and generate a feasible plan to implement.

Well John, it certainly sounds like you and the Optessa team have figured out how to solve complex problems for and advance businesses who need assistance with production and scheduling for many different situations on a companywide level. FND appreciates you sharing how Optessa can help to solve the age-old problem of production and scheduling mishaps that plague many of the manufacturers today.

You can find out more about APS systems at Optessa.com.

John Buglino

John brings his experience in lead generation, marketing automation, and social media marketing to Optessa. Started out his career with New York Community Bancorp as a marketing assistant and later worked for iCIMS and the Hermetic Solutions Group in versatile roles driving new business and elevating the brand within their respective industries. John holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in marketing and advertising from Seton Hall University.

About Optessa

Optessa is a leader in intelligent planning, sequencing, and scheduling optimization software with many successful implementations among top tier global manufacturers. Optessa products have wide applicability in industries as diverse as auto OEMs, suppliers, power equipment, electronics, semiconductor, and mills; batch process industries such as food and beverage, and paints; as well as shipping and logistics.

The company has offices in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada; Hazlet, New Jersey, USA; and Goa, India. Optessa’s leadership team combines deep expertise in software, mathematics, manufacturing, and optimization technologies with unmatched customer commitment.

Optessa supports global deployment at more than 100 distinct manufacturing facilities and production areas. We also partner with industry leaders, Deloitte and Tech Mahindra, to further enhance our client support.

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Birmingham Fastener Announces Acquisition of Rubber Gasket Company, Champion

Birmingham Fastener is excited to announce the acquisition of Champion Sales and Manufacturing, Inc., a leading rubber gasket company based in Magnolia, Texas. With over 100 years of combined experience in the rubber gasket industry, the acquisition strengthens Birmingham Fastener’s waterworks product offering and manufacturing diversity. Most importantly, it allows us to add teammates to our world-class staff.

Champion manufactures mechanical joint, push-on, and other gaskets for the waterworks industry. With this acquisition, Birmingham Fastener and its sister companies can expand product and service offering to their customers.

“Jerry Franey has always been someone I have looked up to in the waterworks industry,” says Birmingham Fastener CEO Brad Tinney, “I am deeply humbled that his family chose Birmingham Fastener to continue the legacy he started in 1983. We both share a deep belief in domestic manufacturing”

Birmingham Fastener has been manufacturing and supplying waterworks fasteners for over forty years. We have grown our business around waterworks customers and have a diverse offering of any fastener required in the industry.

“Champion Manufacturing is well known for their experience in creating the highest quality, custom made gaskets,” says Tinney, “Champion’s technology and expertise will allow us to better support our customers as they seek custom gaskets made from specialty rubbers and elastomers that are manufactured to the tightest tolerances right here in Magnolia, Texas.”

Birmingham Fastener continues to invest in the future and make strategic moves and acquisitions that will yield long term benefits for our customers.

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About Birmingham Fastener: Founded in 1980, Birmingham Fastener is a leading domestic manufacturer and distributor of fasteners for structural steel fabrication, metal building manufacturers, water works, OEM, and MRO. The Birmingham Fastener family of companies consists of multiple locations across the nation. In 2018, Birmingham Fastener received the Alabama Manufacturer of the Year award.

Content Source: Birmingham Fastener

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Acquisitions, Fastener Press Releases, Fasteners, Press Releases

2022 marks the 40th Anniversary of the IFE Fastener Hall of Fame which recognizes professionals who have made significant and enduring contributions to the industrial fastener industry on a national or global scale. Individuals selected for induction will join other honored fastener industry members. 

Each year, thousands of attendees from 30+ countries travel to North America’s #1 trade show city, Las Vegas, Nevada to network and do businesses with hundreds of suppliers, showcasing every type of fasteners including electronic fasteners, specialty tooling products, special application fasteners, tooling and machinery, hand tools, power tools, service solutions, and much more. From industrial to construction, electronic to automotive and aerospace, this is the trade show where all types of manufacturers and distributors come to network and see customers, build new relationships, and find new products. The expo is owned and operated by EmeraldX.com 

Since acquiring the International Fastener Expo (formerly the National Industrial Fastener and Mill Supply Expo NIFMSE) Emerald Expositions has continued the tradition of the Fastener Hall of Fame. In 2016 they added the ‘Young Fastener Professional Award’ which recognizes and honors a young professional who has made significant contributions to the fastener industry. Emerald has continued the Fastener Hall of Fame tradition with the assistance of the Fastener Industry Coalition to help manage the selection process for inductees. Members of the Fastener Industry Coalition include the Fastener Training Institute, Industrial Fasteners Institute, Metropolitan Fastener Distributors Association, Mid-Atlantic Fastener Distributors Association, Mid-West Fastener Association, National Fastener Distributors Association, New England Fastener Distributors Association, North Coast Fastener Association, Pacific-West Fastener Association, Southeast Fastener Association, Southwest Fastener Distributors Association, Women in the Fastener Industry, and Young Fastener Professionals.

Inductees are commemorated during an annual awards ceremony that takes place at the International Fastener Expo (IFE), happening October 17-19, 2022 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The award ceremony is always the most well attended session on the expo floor. Hundreds of fastener industry professionals gather to celebrate the accomplishments of their colleagues. The IFE even had the original Fastener Hall of Fame bricks replicated on a display wall that is used annually at the awards ceremony. You won’t want to miss the opportunity to get your picture taken at the Fastener Hall of Fame Wall at the International Fastener Expo this October!

The History of the Fastener Hall of Fame dates back to 1981.

Mike McGuire and Jim Bannister, co-founders and co-producers of the National Industrial Fastener Show, started the Fastener Hall of Fame in 1982. Mike and Jim consulted with industry associates to select the inductees each year. When the NIFMSE was sold to Emerald Expositions in 2017 FND spoke with Mike McGuire to find out how the Fastener Hall of Fame got started. He explained that “1982 we had our first Hall of Fame induction ceremony with seven honorees which is still the largest class.  If you go to the fastener show website and review the Hall of Fame classes I believe you will agree this first class was like the 1992 American “Dream Team” in basketball at the Barcelona Olympic Games.  This class really helped to set the tone of the Fastener Hall of Fame and the second, the third, the fourth class and beyond were all outstanding groups of fastener leaders, innovators and entrepreneurs”, and looking forward he said “I strongly believe all the Fastener Hall of Fame members and future honorees will “Pay It Forward” in the fastener industry. 

In 2016 Marty Nolan, RL English AKA ‘Traveling Salesman’ contacted the Columbus Convention Center in Ohio the home of the original show, and discovered that the Fastener Hall of Fame walkway had been removed and they had no idea what to do with the bricks. He was told that the bricks had been removed and were sitting in a wooden box on a pallet. He told the convention center that if they did not have anyone to claim them that he would welcome the opportunity to retrieve them. In mid-January 2016, Marty received an an email saying if he wanted to pick them up he could take possession of the bricks. With the help of a few industry friends, he did just that.

See all of the past Fastener Hall of Fame Winners here.

Keeping up the industry’s rich heritage now is the time for you to nominate someone you think has made a difference to the industry, through leadership, innovation, and education. The process is simple: visit FastenerShows.com to submit your nomination online. The deadline this year to submit nominations is July 30th. 

AWARD information:

Fastener Hall of Fame

The Fastener Hall of Fame recognizes professionals who have made significant and enduring contributions to the industrial fastener industry on a national or global scale. Individuals selected for induction will join other honored industry members, including but not limited to inventors, business leaders, and educators. See past Hall of Fame Winners here. The deadline to nominate is July 30, 2022.

The recipient(s) will be recognized at a special event during the International Fastener Expo and receive a commemorative plaque.

Questions?

Direct any questions to the International Fastener Expo at info@fastenershows.com

Nomination Criteria

• Has a long history in the industry.
• Is a promoter of the industry to the business community.
• Is a visionary who identifies and expresses opportunity.
• Is a contributor to change via leadership.
• Plays a key role in industry relations by bringing people together.
• Has an unimpeachable record of integrity and respect in the industry.
• Has changed the industry by developing an innovative product or manufacturing process which significantly improves a process.
• Makes important contributions by serving in leadership positions of city, state, national and/or international associations or other industry‐related groups.
• Demonstrates support of worthy causes that help advance the industry.
• Contributes to the education or professional development of the industry.
• Demonstrates leadership skills in administrative and policy areas that help advance the industry’s objectives.
• Provides significant support for industry initiatives and programs.
• Promotes awareness of the industry’s many positive contributions to the nation’s economy and quality of life.
• Provides leadership in corporate responsibility and has been recognized for leading by example.
• Educates industry professionals in sound corporate citizenship as part of his/her overall responsibility to the community.

Evaluation Guidelines

Nominations will be resubmitted to the selection committee automatically for four years.

Selection is based on the merit of the nominee, not by the number of nominations.

Selection Process

Nominations received by the deadline will be evaluated by the selection committee.

Decisions will be based on the content provided on the nomination form and any supplemental material submitted. Letters of congratulation will be emailed to the inductee as well as notification via telephone. An acknowledgment notice will be sent to those who submit nomination forms.

Young Fastener Professional of the Year

The Young Fastener Professional of the Year award recognizes and honors a young professional who has made significant contributions to fastener industry.

The recipient will be recognized at a special event during the International Fastener Expo and receive a commemorative plaque. See past Young Fastener Professional Winners here. The deadline to nominate is July 30, 2022.

Questions?

Direct any questions to the International Fastener Expo at info@fastenershows.com

Nomination Criteria

• 40 years old or younger.
• Recognized as a future leader in the fastener industry.
• Promotes the industry to the business community.
• Plays a key role in industry relations by bringing people together.
• Has an unimpeachable record of integrity and respect in the industry.
• Is a visionary who identifies and expresses opportunity.
• Provides significant support for industry initiatives and programs.

Evaluation Guidelines

Nominations will be resubmitted to the selection committee automatically for four years.

Selection is based on the merit of the nominee, not by the number of nominations.

Selection Process

Nominations received by the deadline will be evaluated by the selection committee.

Decisions will be based on the content provided on the nomination form and any supplemental material submitted. Letters of congratulations will be emailed to the inductee as well as notification via telephone. An acknowledgment notice will be sent to those who submit nomination forms.

QUESTIONS: Direct any questions to the International Fastener Expo at info@fastenershows.com

About International Fastener Expo

The International Fastener Expo (IFE) is the largest and most diverse gathering of fastener and industrial professionals in North America. Founded in 1981 it serves all reaches of the supply chain, from manufacturer to distributor to OEMs, and features nearly 70 product categories. With over 650 vendors and more than 5,000 attendees from 30+ nations, the International Fastener Expo delivers industry‐leading content and facilitates vital industry connections at their annual three‐day show in Las Vegas, Nevada, the entertainment and trade show capital of North America. For more information on IFE, visit www.fastenershows.com.

About Emerald Expositions

International Fastener Expo is owned and operated by Emerald, a leader in building dynamic, market-driven business-to-business platforms that integrate live events with a broad array of industry insights, digital tools, and data-focused solutions to create uniquely rich experiences. As true partners, we at Emerald strive to build our customers’ businesses by creating opportunities that inspire, amaze, and deliver breakthrough results. With over 140 events each year, our teams are creators and connectors who are thoroughly immersed in the industries we serve and are committed to supporting the communities in which we operate. For more information, please visit http://www.emeraldx.com

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