U.S. manufacturing expanded for the seventh consecutive month in July and posted its strongest overall growth in more than four years.

New orders and production both increased, signaling stronger demand and busier factory floors. Four of the nation’s six largest manufacturing industries also reported growth.

Manufacturers added workers for the first time in nearly three years, another encouraging sign that the sector is entering the second half of 2026 with renewed confidence.

“Orders are up. Production is up. Hiring is up. American manufacturing is moving again,” said Ryan Augsburger, president of the Ohio Manufacturers’ Association. 8/3/2026