The seasonally adjusted Fastener Distributor Index (FDI) for March was 66, down from 66.1 in February, according to the latest analysis from Baird, FCH Sourcing Network and the Institute for Supply Management.

Said Dave Manthey of Baird, “Key themes among respondents included: very high demand/low supplies, extended lead times, price increases and delays on imported products.”

The Forward-Looking Indicator (FLI) surged to another all-time high of 78.5, up from a previous record of 73.9 in February. According to the report, the FLI “implies additional expansionary readings in the months ahead. The FLI continues to reflect lean customer/respondent inventories and a bullish six-month outlook as favorable for future demand.”