March 2010

 

Copper & Brass Outlook
Caution: Price Volatility Ahead
Though demand for copper and brass products has accelerated following a stalled 2009, uncertainty over copper’s fluctuating price leaves red metals suppliers anxious about the road ahead.

New Foundry Recasts NBM’s Market Reach
With the advanced capabilities of its modern new foundry, National Bronze & Metals plans to expand into new alloys and new markets all over the world.

Appliance Market Forecast
‘There’s Not Much to Smile About Yet’
Experts predict a slow rebound in production of household appliances over the next few years, provided residential construction and remodeling improve.

It’s a Buyer’s Market for Software
Though the economy is still challenging, now may be a good time to invest in a new computer system.

MCN Sales Compensation Survey
Compensation Dips for Service Center Sales Pros
Sales professionals saw declines in their average earnings in 2009, but perhaps not as severe as expected.

Fourth-Quarter Report and Outlook
Distributors Delighted 2009 is in the Past
In their year-end reports, publicly held service centers express confidence in current market trends after a difficult 2009.

 

Business Topics
M&A Activity to Accelerate in 2010

By John Jazwinski

 

From the Editor

By Tim Triplett, Editor-in-Chief