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This annual supplement gives an overview of important information related to cutting and sawing performed by metal service centers and fabricators.

Hypertherm Associates and BLM Group have formed a strategic partnership agreement aimed at expanding the market reach of their respective solutions. The two industry leaders will collaborate to offer premier solutions to customers through BLM Group’s laser cutting and tube bending systems and Hypertherm Associates’ plasma and waterjet cutting products and software.

Global steel production in October increased 1 percent to 152.1 million metric tons, Brussels-based worldsteel reported. Year-to-date production remained down 1.6 percent at 1.55 billion tons.

Metalforming companies are a little more optimistic about business conditions over the next three months, Precision Metalforming Association reported in its latest release. PMA surveys 96 metalforming companies monthly about the state of the metals supply chain.

The U.S. imported 1.84 million tons of finished steel in October, an 8.6 percent increase compared with the same month in 2024, the American Iron and Steel Institute reported. Net imports of steel totaled 2.39 million tons, a 12 percent increase from October 2023.

Familiar names claim many of the top spots in annual survey of steel customers. By John E. Jacobson

The L.S. Starrett Co., a leading global manufacturer of saw blades, precision hand tools and gauges, power tool accessories and more, has expanded its Sawing Products Specialists team in the U.S., broadening and strengthening its territory sawing application support. Starrett has welcomed Jack Heinz, Keith Wilson, Greg Dettorre and Doug Warden to its organization.

The Alliance Family of Companies, Gary, Ind., has announced its expansion into the tubular market with the launch of Alliance Tubular Products. This strategic move will reinforce Alliance's commitment to providing exceptional service and high-quality products to its valued customers, the company said.

Hascall Steel Company, a flat-rolled steel distributor and service center founded in Grand Rapids, Mich., has opened a new facility in Canton, Mich.

Vice President of Sales Len Stahl will retire after 30 years at Miami Valley Steel Service. Before becoming VP, he served as account manager, inside sales manager and sales manager.