Inventories

ISM's Non-Manufacturing Inventories Index registered 53.5 percent in August, 3 percentage points lower than the 56.5 percent reading that was reported in July. Of the total respondents in August, 27 percent indicated they do not have inventories or do not measure them. Comments from respondents include: "Keeping higher levels of critical items on hand" and "Focusing on inventory reduction metrics as we approach fiscal year-end."

The six industries reporting an increase in inventories in August — listed in order — are: Utilities; Mining; Transportation & Warehousing; Accommodation & Food Services; Professional, Scientific & Technical Services; and Construction. The seven industries reporting decreases in inventories in August — listed in order — are: Arts, Entertainment & Recreation; Health Care & Social Assistance; Finance & Insurance; Information; Retail Trade; Public Administration; and Management of Companies & Support Services.