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The Fabricator is a magazine that provides market, industry, and product news to metal fabrication professions. Back in April 2020, they published an article called, “A brief history lesson on steel prices during crises”. It was the very early stages of the Covid 19 Pandemic, and the publication drew comparisons to the Great Recession of 08-09 in order to gauge how the steel industry would be affected by the global health crisis.


Reading this article nearly a year later, we know the steel industry, and all those industries that rely on it, are continuing to face significant challenges.


In Spring 2020, steel production and prices were indeed declining, but not nearly as severely as the Recession of ’08. Both hit suddenly and we saw a sharp decline in the demand and cost for steel. In 2020, mills were forced to close or drastically reduce their capacity, along with businesses across the globe.


Fast forward to mid-March 2021. While things are improving concerning the pandemic, many unknowns remain. Steel prices are now setting record highs. Demand is still grossly higher than what supply can keep up with. In an article published just a few days ago, “Steel prices continue to set new record highs week after week’, The Fabricator provides an updated look at how this is presenting very real challenges to fabricators and buyers alike. Availability is restricted, and pricing has become almost unpredictable. Throw the growing inflation into the mix and the landscape looks even more unpredictable.


According to SMU (Steel Market Update), “the market on March 8-9 showed the benchmark price for hot-rolled steel reaching $1,270/ton ($63.50/cwt), topping the previous high mark set in 2008 by $200/ton.” (TheFabricator.com)


Things to consider as one navigates this:


1. How and when to pass the price increase along to the consumer. Now is the time to plan on how to roll this out.


2. Keep your eye on inflation indicators, in particular, wage increases. While some industries like construction and hospitality are seeing increases, this isn’t affecting all industries. Wage inflation is a key driver of inflation.


3. Consider stockpiling inventory. Not just with steel, but with any consumable or commodity that is used frequently. This locks on your costs for a period of time. If this isn’t possible, try to negotiate with your suppliers.


4. Build partnerships. Unprecedented times call for thinking outside of the norm. Analyze what type of unconventional business partnerships could help ease the burden of rising steel prices and production costs.


5. Don’t rely on one vendor. Another reason for the rising price of steel is supply chain issues. If possible, have several vendors you can rely on for steel and other commodities, in the event that one can’t deliver.


We post two blog updates here a month, but be sure to connect with us on LinkedIn, for more frequent industry news!


You can read the article from last year in its entirety here, and the latest article here.


Take your luck into your own hands with our Preventative Maintenance Programs! If you want to avoid unnecessary downtime & costly repairs, ask yourself the following questions:


When is the last time your equipment has had Preventative Maintenance performed?


If you haven’t had your baler or compactor serviced in a year or more, don’t wait any longer to set your appointment! According to ANSI, (The American National Standards Institute), equipment should undergo maintenance checks at least annually. Whether you operate with one baler or have a fleet, we can accommodate your organization’s needs.


How important is the safety of and reliability of this equipment in your operation?


If it’s very important, consider this. After long periods of regular use, inevitably, oil quality in your baler or compactor will begin to degrade. From here, it’s a domino effect. Parts will undergo wear with time, which in turn decreases pressure capability. For compactors, material weights will be reduced as a result. This will mean additional pull fees for your organization. And with your baler, performing at less than optimal levels causes lower bale weights, and often times, increases labor costs. Overall productivity nose dives and hauler fees increase. Sanitation issues will likely follow suit, which is hazardous to your employees. Click here for the full list of critical systems and structures that will be addressed during PM, as well as options to customize your program.

Luckily, we work on all makes and model of balers and compactors in the industry, throughout the United States – not just PTR recycling and waste equipment! Contact us at (800) 523-1155 or email Service@ptrco.com to learn more or make your service appointment.


Happy St. Patrick’s Day from all of us here at PTR!


“May your blessings outnumber the shamrocks that grow. And may trouble avoid you wherever you go.” – Irish Blessing

PTR Baler and Compactor Company has recently welcomed two exciting new additions to our national Sales Team!

CJ PANCIOCCO – SOUTHWEST


We’re thrilled to announce that CJ Panciocco, formerly of WCA Waste of Orlando, is the newest member of the PTR sales team. CJ brings with him a new dimension of understanding coupled with an enthusiastic attitude.

CJ is a graduate of Coastal Carolina University where he majored in Marketing and Small Business Consulting. He has worked in both the hauling and equipment sides of the waste and recycling industry, so he truly understands and can anticipate your needs.

CJ’s primary role with PTR will be to manage the Southwest region (CA, AZ, NV, NM, UT, CO) for new and rebuilt equipment sales under the direct guidance of Fred Freer, Director of Sales SE & SW. We believe you will find his expertise invaluable for all of your future waste and recycling equipment requirements. Feel free to contact CJ directly!

CJ PancioccoSouthwest Regional Sales Representativeo: (215) 537-2214 ex.2288c: (267) 658-0264e: cpanciocco@ptrco.com


 

SAM MCKINLEY – MIDWEST 


PTR has also recently welcomed Sam McKinley as the newest member of the PTR Midwest sales team! Sam is an Ohio State graduate and now resides in the Columbus, Ohio area. After earning his degree, Sam was involved in helping a National Hauler grow their market share in the Midwestern Region.

His primary role with PTR will be to manage the OH, MI, KY and IN territory for new and rebuilt equipment sales under the direct guidance of Jay Sikorski, Regional Manager Midwest & Northwest. We believe you will find his expertise invaluable for all of your future waste and recycling equipment requirements.

Together, we’re confident we can add value to your Waste/Recycling Program. If you’re ready to schedule an appointment or have questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Sam directly!

Sam McKinley

Midwest Regional Sales Representative

o: (800) 523-3654 ex.1010

c: (267) 453-2905

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