Store-brand sales rewrote the record books in 2024, as consumers turned to private-label products to rein in spending. The record sales demonstrate a growing trust for store brands, but expects note generics still struggle to gain traction when it comes to personal care categories, where brand loyalty is strong and emotional connections to a brand often outweigh price.

New orders for manufactured goods in November were down $2.1 billion, or 0.4%, to $586.1 billion, while new durable goods orders fell 1.2%, according to Census Bureau data. Shipments increased $0.7 billion or 0.1% to $586.3 billion after dipping in October, while unfilled orders, which have risen for 51 of the last 52 months, increased $4.6 billion or 0.3% to $1,404.8 billion. Inventories rose $1.9 billion or 0.4% to $529.7 billion.

New US single-family home sales rose 3.6% in Dec., according to the Commerce Department. The annual sales for 2024 reached 683,000 units, a 2.5% increase from 2023, indicating a recovery in the housing market despite high mortgage rates. While sales surged in the Northeast and West, they declined in the South and Midwest.

Trucking companies are leveraging AI-enabled onboard cameras to improve safety and efficiency, as seen with Boyle Transportation and Skelton USA's use of Netradyne systems and Alliance Industries' use of Motive. The AI systems provide predictive analysis, customized driver coaching and exoneration from liability, while also offering real-time alerts for issues such as drowsiness and distracted driving.

President Donald Trump has announced new tariffs of 25% on imports from Canada and Mexico and 10% on imports from China, effective 1 Feb. These tariffs are part of a broader strategy to address trade imbalances and economic challenges. The tariffs are expected to impact supply chains, particularly in sectors reliant on imports from China.

Nearly three-fourths of supply chain leaders see technology as essential for growth, and 88% anticipate more than 15% growth over the next two years, according to a Descartes Systems Group study. Global trade intelligence, analytics and supply chain mapping are seen as key technologies.

Typeform's Kevin Branscum highlights the importance of brand marketing in the B2B industry, noting that product differentiation has diminished as technology advances. Branscum suggests B2B marketers adopt B2C strategies such as embracing cultural trends, reaching customers beyond work contexts, being personable and showcasing products creatively.

Dealmakers anticipate a rise in US mergers and acquisitions, driven by a strong economy, buyer demand, and expectations of a change in regulatory stance under President Trump. "Clients who had began preparations last year are now working to bring those assets to market in the near future," said Carole Streicher, head of deal advisory and strategy at KPMG in the US. "The headwinds that we've faced in the M&A market over the last couple of years have actually turned into tailwinds."

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