Manufacturing in 2025 & what lies ahead.

A year ago I penned my thoughts on 2024 and what 2025 had in store.  I declared 2024 a strange year with headlines and economic data at odds.  I had high hopes for 2025, but pondered what Trump’s aggressive policies on immigration and trade would create.  Unfortunately, the economic picture has not become any clearer for 2026. 

In theory the tariffs were designed to assist industries like metal casting where clear dumping has occurred for over a decade.  This practice has decimated the domestic metal casting base.  I welcomed the action to promote fair competitive practice, but the broad-based strategy that went into effect only diluted the real problem and created unnecessary tension with friendly nations.  Costs have increased for US manufacturers while the tariffs have resulted in increased quoting activity, but few examples of reshored business. 

The stock market continues to provide a false sense of economic stability as its driven to new heights by technology that has shown questionable value and will demand unfathomable power requirements.

The aggressive immigration crackdown is threating the manufacturing worker base, especially in large metropolitan areas.  Immigration laws are important and must be enforced, but we desperately need practical legislation that provides the workers we need along with the strict enforcement. 

Business leaders must monitor the daily headlines, sift through for the facts that will allow us to make good decisions. In uncertain times all we can do is to strengthen our businesses.  Make them more productive, flexible and adaptable to a changing environment.

I am proud of our organization’s accomplishments over the past year.  We united General Die Casters and Dart Casting under the GD Casting Group.  We strengthened our team by adding Matt Proske as COO and bright young engineers that are performing amazing feats with automation and 3D printing.  We continue to make major investments in Dart Casting by adding two new 900 ton casting machines, melting furnaces and reorganizing the plant for improved efficiency and workflow. 

Change is the only constant in life. 

The GD Casting Group will continue its mission of providing the highest level of quality, customer service and professionalism in the world and we’ll continue to look for customers that value what we provide.  Whatever the future holds, this strategy will ensure our organization continues to thrive.    

Brian Lennon

CEO