True Value Co. and lender PNC have resolved some sticking points on cash collateral usage, and the deal to sell True Value assets to Do it Best is moving forward. The potential closing date is set for Nov. 22, earlier than the previous target of Dec. 16. The agreement involves debtors, unsecured creditors and pre-petition secured lenders, and terms include having Do it Best deliver a cash pay-down of $163 million to lenders.

Core & Main, a St. Louis-based waterworks distributor, has completed its acquisition of Eastcom Associates, a New Jersey distributor of underground utility protection equipment in 13 states. "The Eastcom team brings a wealth of product and service knowledge in this growing product area for Core & Main, which will be a great addition to our existing product offerings," Core & Main President Mike Huebert said when announcing the acquisition in early October.

The US economy added 12,000 jobs to nonfarm payrolls in October, according to the Labor Department's Bureau of Labor Statistics, below expectations of 100,000 new roles. The employment picture was affected by severe hurricanes as well as a strike at Boeing. Meanwhile, the unemployment rate remained at 4.1%.

October saw the seventh straight month of shrinking activity in the US manufacturing sector, per Institute for Supply Management data. ISM's Purchasing Managers' Index dropped to 46.5%, its lowest point so far this year and the 23rd time it has signaled contraction in the past two years. "We're 26 months into a contracting manufacturing environment primarily driven by the new order levels, the demand being non-existent for 26 months," said Tim Fiore, chair of ISM's Manufacturing Business Survey Committee.

Recent legislation like the EU's Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive and the US's Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act has intensified regulatory pressures on companies to maintain comprehensive supply chain visibility, writes Rhea Rakshit from Sayari. These laws require firms to conduct due diligence beyond direct suppliers, extending to sub-tier suppliers and raw material providers, to ensure compliance and mitigate risks.

While visiting the port of Baltimore Tuesday, President Joe Biden announced nearly $3 billion in federal funding to enhance climate-friendly equipment and infrastructure at 55 US ports. The initiative aims to electrify port operations, create 40,000 union jobs and reduce pollution, aligning with the administration's clean energy goals. Part of the Clean Ports Program, the funding aims to cut more than 3 million metric tons of carbon emissions and improve air quality in port communities.

The Federal Railroad Administration is directing $2.4 billion in grants to 122 railroad projects, with a focus on increasing reliability and safety. "Each project advances a future where our supply chains are stronger, passenger rail more accessible, and freight movement safer and more efficient," said Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.

David Brock emphasizes the importance of "getting out of the building" to truly understand customers because engaging with customers in their natural environments provides deeper insights into their needs and work experiences. He suggests practical ways for businesses to connect with customers, such as visiting their workplaces, attending industry events and fostering open communication.

Healthy debates within a company can significantly strengthen strategies, enhance accountability and create more efficient solutions, writes Steve Gardiner, the CEO of Nature's Bakery. By encouraging "fierce internal debate" and ensuring all voices are heard, teams can pressure-test ideas and move forward with a unified strategy, Gardiner notes.

With the upcoming election, both consumers and corporations are experiencing heightened anxiety. A FactSet analysis revealed that 116 S&P 500 companies have mentioned the election during recent earnings calls, with 38 firms spanning various industries noting a slowdown in economic activity attributed to the election.

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