2024 was an odd year. Economists declare that we have the “best economy ever,” with GDP growing, the stock market climbing, unemployment remaining low, and interest rates finally beginning to decline. Meanwhile, sales for most manufacturers are below forecast. The likely culprits seem to be weak consumer demand caused by high interest rates and excess inventory from the supply chain crisis.

We had anticipated that U.S. manufacturing would experience a resurgence after the post-COVID supply chain crisis. Unfortunately, the threat of competition from China, Mexico, and India feels greater than ever. China’s use of Mexico as a shipping conduit to bypass tariffs is concerning, and its large investment in Mexican manufacturing is even more alarming.

While businesses cannot control the external environment, we can adapt to it. Dart Casting and General Die Casters have worked diligently to enhance our operations, ensuring we remain cost-competitive and deliver products and services that surpass our rivals. This year, we implemented several new robots and cobots in CNC machining and die casting. Dart implemented the B&L Odyssey ERP system and expanded our engineering team to focus on process control, improved efficiencies, and superior customer support. Additionally, we invested in two new 900-ton HPM casting machines and committed to a 3-year plan to completely modernize Dart Casting’s operations.

I believe 2025 will be a good year for manufacturing. I anticipate that demand will improve as interest rates decline and inventory levels normalize. It's difficult to predict if President-Elect Donald Trump’s aggressive policies on immigration and trade will spur manufacturing or reignite inflation as labor supply declines and tariffs increase costs. His proposed plan to improve government efficiency and reduce regulation is promising, but could negatively impact unemployment and GDP growth in the short term. We’ll have to wait and see–and adapt.

Leading a manufacturing company presents unparalleled challenges and rewards. I am deeply grateful to lead such a dedicated team at General Die Casters & Dart Casting and for our outstanding and loyal customers. Whatever 2025 brings, we are ready for it!

With capacity available in 2025, General Die Casters is ready to take on your next challenge. Reach out to explore how we can help drive your project forward. Contact General Die Casters today!