The seasonally adjusted Fastener Distributor Index (FDI) for September was 54.2, down slightly from 55.4 in August due to continuing supply chain issues, according to the latest analysis from Baird, FCH Sourcing Network and the Institute for Supply Management.

Key themes among respondents in the analysis included raw material shortages, long deliveries and staffing issues.

“Demand is strong but supply chain issues could cause actual orders to soften,” one respondent said, according to the analysis.

The forward-looking indicator (FLI) similarly moderated to 69.5.