Beyond Survival: How You Can Win in 2026
January 6, 2026Comments
Tariffs and trade uncertainty may linger, but 2026 offers a real opportunity for manufacturers ready to take charge. This is the year to move beyond survival and focus on what you can control—streamlining operations, unlocking the power of data, and elevating sales strategies. By leaning into innovation and adaptability, metal formers can turn a challenging environment into a springboard for growth, and emerge stronger, smarter and more competitive than ever.
Maximize Tax Opportunities
Tax planning is one of the most overlooked tools for financial stability. Recent updates to the tax code create opportunities for manufacturers to recoup costs through incentives like Section 174 R&D expensing, bonus depreciation, and qualified production property credits. These provisions can make investments in new tooling, automation or process improvements far more cost-effective, turning these incentives into meaningful savings.
Invest in Technology with Purpose
Approach technology upgrades with precision, not impulse. Rather than chasing the latest tools, evaluate where modern, cloud-based systems, for example, can deliver measurable ROI. For many metal formers, this means integrating disconnected systems such as scheduling, quality tracking and maintenance into a single source of truth. Better data visibility leads to smarter forecasting and faster decision-making. Cybersecurity deserves equal attention, especially as more press controls and CNC systems connect to networks. A modest investment in security now can prevent costly disruptions later.
Strengthen Sales Performance
With industry revenues flat or falling, sales effectiveness becomes a competitive advantage. Streamline workflows, eliminate friction points, and explore new verticals that align with your existing capabilities, such as EV components or lightweight assemblies. Even small improvements in closing rates can yield outsized returns.
