Supply Chain Research

American retailers’ appetite for imported powertools is increasing. Panjiva data shows imports climbed 26% on a year earlier in April, including a 34% jump in shipments from China. That may also represent suppliers trying to get a jump on inventories in the event of a trade investigation. A case was launched by the Commerce Department in the adjacent toolbox sector in mid-April. The fastest growth has come from chainsaw maker Stihl, which increased imports by 92% in the three months to April 30. Stanley Black & Decker has lost ground meanwhile, with a 43% drop in shipments after five mon...