US consumers are increasingly optimistic that inflation is slowing, anticipating a 3.1% rise in prices over the next 12 months compared to earlier expectations of 3.5%. Consumer sentiment, however, fell more than expected, slipping from 69.5 in August to 67.7 in early September, according to a University of Michigan index.

ADI Global opened a new 400,000-square-foot distribution center in the Dallas area that features advanced warehouse automation technologies for product sorting, picking and packing and real-time inventory management. The state-of-the-art facility also optimizes the flow of goods to support same-day and next-day shipping and quick-turn requirements, and offers will call and pick up.

Manufacturing output in the US rose by 0.1% in August despite motor vehicle and parts output declining by 5%, according to the Federal Reserve. However, there are signs that manufacturing may be stabilizing, as factory output increased by 0.6%, excluding motor vehicles, and increases were realized in the production of machinery, aerospace and primary metals.

The Department of Homeland Security issued a report warning of the major potential cyberthreats it foresees for 2024 as part of an annual report on the US security outlook. The report warned of the escalating cost of cybercrime on the economy and the rising ransomware risk to large groups.

Distributors building strong data teams need to first analyze what reports and data are driving margin and sales growth and costs down, writes John Gunderson of Dorn Group. Companies should then invest in those analytics that are creating value and customize their reports to ensure the right analytics are reaching the appropriate teams, Gunderson writes.

The rise of generative AI tools such as ChatGPT shouldn't worry business-to-business marketers, but should galvanize them to make the most of their own human qualities, IBA International's Judith Ingleton-Beer writes. AI can't replicate the skills most needed in marketing -- "creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence," Ingleton-Beer writes.

Spending on influencer marketing is on pace to increase 16.9% globally this year and top $34 billion, with the US accounting for more than $26 billion and 17.6% growth, PQ Media reports. The growth will primarily be fueled by macro and microinfluencers touting brands across multiple social platforms that are heavily weighted toward younger consumers and entertainment, fashion and sports.

Tens of millions of borrowers are due to resume student loan repayments on October 1 after a moratorium since March 2020, and it has been estimated that the restart could drain up to $100 million from the US economy and people's spending power. Representatives of several leading retailers say they are bracing for spending downturns, although some bank economists say they expect the effect to be limited.

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