❗Let's close the gap: We still need your help to raise $40,000 by April 1. Donate now

Biden invokes Defense Production Act to address nationwide formula shortage

May 18, 2022
Supplies of baby formula across the country have been severely curtailed after a February recall exacerbated ongoing supply chain disruptions.
A sign tells customers about purchase limits on baby formula at a Maryland Target on May 16. The ongoing formula shortage follows supply chain issues and a February recall.
Jim Watson/AFP via Getty Images

For this Detroit restauranteur, business is still "day to day"

May 18, 2022
For Lester Gouvia, chef-owner of Norma G's Detroit, business in the pandemic economy has been a "rollercoaster."
"We do have some good days, we do still have some bad days," says Lester Gouvia, chef-owner of Norma G's Detroit, a Caribbean restaurant.
Courtesy Lester Gouvia

More than 40% of baby formula out of stock, data company says

May 13, 2022
Just four companies make most of the baby formula in the U.S. After a recall and plant closure at one, there's not enough supply to meet the need.
When you only have a few companies in the country that make something, shortages are one of the risks, says Brian Dittmeier of the National WIC Association.
Stefani Reynolds/AFP via Getty Images

California's drought is squeezing farmers and threatening food prices

May 10, 2022
“There are a lot of empty fields that aren't being planted — something I've never seen before," say Terranova Ranch's Don Cameron.
In California, almond trees are being removed and hundreds of thousands of acres of rice won't be planted because of the drought, says Don Cameron of Terranova Ranch.
Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

China's zero-COVID policy is sending ripples through the world economy

May 9, 2022
As one region after another locks down, companies struggle and delays hinder the production and transportation of goods.
As China continues its lockdowns to prevent coronavirus transmission, delays hit manufacturing and transport operations.
Kevin Frayer/Getty Images

The hunt is on for elusive baby formula

May 2, 2022
A product recall plus, yes, supply chain woes have some parents driving hours to satisfy their child's nutritional needs.
Baby formula has been pricier and in short supply thanks to supply chain issues and a February product recall.
Scott Olson/Getty Images

This manufacturer sees little improvement in snarled global supply chains

Apr 26, 2022
“It’s the kind of stuff that keeps you awake at night,” said Teresa Asbury, a senior executive at the Legacy Cos.
Pandemic lockdowns in China are stacking more challenges onto overloaded shipping networks.
Sameer Al-Doumy/AFP via Getty Images

For public good, not for profit.

Materials and labor shortages continue to complicate construction industry

Apr 26, 2022
Oregon-based journeyman and business owner Maurice Rahming said he's contending with long wait times for steel and electrical equipment.
Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

Remember the trade war with China? U.S. businesses are still feeling it.

Apr 19, 2022
Kevin Feig's Florida auto parts company is paying the U.S. government up to $600,000 a month in import duties.
"You have to deal with what you're given. And right now, we've accepted the fact that the tariffs aren't going away," says Kevin Feig, president of Foreign Parts Distributors in Miami. Above, a worker assembles car door unit in Chicago.
Tim Boyle/Getty Images

More supply chain woes likely when China eases its COVID lockdowns

Apr 18, 2022
Goods sitting idle in warehouses or containers will head to the U.S., though many companies have adapted to shortages.
China's most recent lockdowns have reduced shipments and eased the stress on tight supply chains, but sooner or later, high volumes of goods will flow again.
Dale De La Rey/AFP via Getty Images