5 for 2025: Fabrication and Supply Chain Trends Take Shape
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As we step into 2025, the fabrication and supply chain industries are buzzing with challenges and opportunities. What’s next?
We tapped the minds of four directors within Ryerson Advanced Processing who give us five key trends they are watching closely as the new year unfolds.
1. Reshoring, Reimagined
James Porter, GM for Ryerson Advanced Processing in the west, says the reshoring movement remains prevalent, but holds a degree of uncertainty around tariffs and global trade dynamics.
Ryerson is well-positioned to help businesses navigate this shifting landscape. As Porter explains, “Companies are reshoring only to reconsider when costs shift.”
Ryerson’s ability to source domestically or internationally—combined with its expertise in creating flexible, resilient supply chains—gives customers the confidence to adapt as conditions change. From moving materials seamlessly across borders to leveraging our vast network of suppliers, Ryerson ensures that reshoring efforts can withstand the twists and turns of global trade.
2. Flex Capacity to Meet Skills Gap
Mike Nauman, GM for Ryerson Advanced Processing in the east and Canada, believes the skills gap is still something to keep an eye on in 2025. He believes the manufacturing workforce is still feeling the effects of retirements and shifts to other industries.
"The skills gap remains a significant challenge," says Nauman. “And Ryerson is meeting the moment with strategic capacity management, ensuring resources are available where and when they’re needed most.”
Nauman refers to this concept as ‘flex capacity", which is the ability to adapt and reallocate resources—such as labor, equipment, and production capabilities—quickly in response to changing demands or challenges.
This includes moving resources to high-demand areas, leveraging multi-process or automated equipment for scalable operations, and maintaining a cross-trained workforce that can step into various roles as needed. By building supply chain agility, companies can pivot sourcing strategies and mitigate disruptions, ensuring operational continuity.
This adaptability is essential for addressing workforce shortages, meeting fluctuating customer demands, and maintaining efficiency. Flex capacity enables manufacturers to minimize bottlenecks, reduce downtime, and consistently deliver quality products on time.
“At Ryerson, flex capacity ensures we’re always ready to meet customer needs, whether tackling labor challenges or executing large-scale fabrication projects,” adds Nauman.
3. Quality as a Differentiator
Jeff Pitzenberger, GM, Ryerson Advanced Processing, emphasizes that quality and on-time delivery are non-negotiables for customers. “Suppliers who can consistently meet these expectations will win,” he says. A focus on precision and reliability will continue to separate the best from the rest.
He adds that in today’s competitive environment, consistent quality and reliable delivery are essential to staying ahead and that “suppliers who can consistently meet these expectations will win.”
Ryerson’s investment in advanced processing capabilities and world-class facilities ensures exceptional precision and performance. “Many locations across our network boast a high rate of on-time delivery and industry-leading defect rates,” adds Pitzenberger. “Manufacturers trust us not just to meet expectations but to exceed them, positioning their operations for long-term success.”
4. Logistics Reimagined
In an increasingly complex global market, logistics remains a critical component of supply chain success. As manufacturers reassess their sourcing strategies, Ryerson is helping reimagine logistics to create more agile and dependable supply chains. “Customers are actively seeking suppliers who can deliver on time with exceptional quality,” says Pitzenberger, emphasizing the importance of seamless delivery in today’s competitive environment.
Ryerson’s expansive network of facilities, combined with its ability to source both domestically and internationally, ensures customers receive materials where and when they need them. Advanced planning tools and real-time tracking capabilities further streamline the process, providing transparency and reducing downtime.
Whether it’s managing cross-border operations, such as moving materials between the U.S. and Mexico, or coordinating large-scale projects like data center construction, Ryerson delivers logistics solutions tailored to meet the demands of modern manufacturing. This focus on reliability and efficiency ensures customers can maintain operations with confidence, even in uncertain times.
5. The Ever-Ready Supply Chain
With demand expected to grow but labor availability static, the ability to be prepared takes center stage. Brian Seeley, GM, Ryerson Advanced Processing, highlights an essential message for 2025: preparation. “Our supply chains are healthier than ever, and our teams are stronger,” he notes, underscoring Ryerson’s readiness to handle the anticipated resurgence in manufacturing.
Years of investment in facilities, equipment, and network expansion have bolstered Ryerson’s ability to scale operations and adapt to increased demand. By focusing on supply chain resilience, strategic capacity planning, and leveraging advanced technologies, Ryerson stands ready to support customers as they ramp up production and capitalize on opportunities in the year ahead. As Seeley puts it, “When you’re ready, we’re ready.”
Ready for What’s Next?
At Ryerson Advanced Processing, we’re prepared for the trends shaping 2025. Whether it’s adapting to tariff changes, tackling the skills gap, or leveraging cutting-edge technology, we’re here to ensure your supply chain is ready for the future. Let’s make 2025 the year of possibility—together.
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