Introducing "Metal Market Watch" – Your Essential Guide to the Irish Steel Economy

Irish Steel's premier bimonthly publication is dedicated to providing in-depth insights and analysis of the Irish steel economy. Spearheaded by our in-house economist, Jim Power, each edition of "Metal Market Watch" is crafted to empower professionals within the steel and metal fabrication industry with knowledge, trends, and data that matter.

Meet Jim Power

Jim Power is a distinguished Irish economist known for his extensive experience and insightful analysis within the economic sector. With an impressive career background, Power has served as the Chief Economist at Friends First, a subsidiary of the insurance multinational Achmea. He hails from Waterford, Ireland, where he is also based with his family.

Jim Power's academic journey led him to University College Dublin (UCD), where he honed his expertise in economics. His profound understanding of economic principles and his ability to apply them to real-world scenarios have positioned him as one of Ireland's leading and best-known economic analysts.

Throughout his career, Power has made significant contributions to the financial services industry, including roles as Treasury Economist at AIB Group and Chief Economist at Bank of Ireland Group Treasury and Friends First Group. His work spans across providing economic analysis, forecasts, and commentary, not only to audiences within Ireland but also on an international scale.

Jim Power's involvement in "Metal Market Watch" as the driving force behind the research highlights his commitment to delivering comprehensive economic insights. His expertise ensures that the publication offers valuable perspectives on market dynamics, technological innovations, sustainability, and economic forecasts related to the Irish steel economy​​​​.

Jim Power

Economist

Market Dynamics and Trends

Dive deep into the current market dynamics affecting the Irish steel industry. Our analysis covers price trends, supply chain updates, and predictive market movements, offering a comprehensive overview that helps businesses navigate the complexities of the market.

Technological Innovations

Stay ahead with the latest advancements in steel fabrication and manufacturing technology. This section highlights innovative practices, new machinery, and software that are setting the pace for the future of the industry.

Sustainability and Environmental Impact

As the industry moves towards greener practices, our coverage on sustainability initiatives and environmental impacts becomes crucial. Explore how the Irish steel sector is adapting to environmental regulations and what it means for your business.

Economic Forecasts and Analyses

Led by Jim Power, our economic forecasts provide a forward-looking perspective on the health and growth of the steel economy. Gain insights into potential challenges and opportunities that could affect the industry in the short and long term.

Subscribe now to stay informed

Embrace the opportunity to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving steel industry. Subscribe to "Metal Market Watch" and gain access to invaluable insights that can shape the future of your business. Let's navigate the complexities of the Irish steel economy together, with Jim Power leading the way in research and analysis.

Make "Metal Market Watch" your go-to resource for industry insights, trends, and forecasts. Subscribe today and ensure you're always informed and prepared for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the Irish steel economy.

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2024 President's Letter

Hello everyone,

I’d like to begin this letter by expressing my immense pride and privilege in being the inaugural President of Irish Steel. Our organisation is dedicated to aiding SMEs in the metalwork fabrication and manufacturing industry across Ireland, aiming to fortify and advance their businesses. We are committed to supporting our members in enhancing their business performance and competitive edge by fostering connections for the exchange of knowledge, ideas, and experiences.

The term “Knowledge sharing” may seem abstract, but in the context of Irish Steel, it translates to empowering industry professionals to achieve success! Our focus is on aiding industry members in becoming more professional, profitable, connected, and organised.

My initial encounter with the benefits Irish Steel offers was in 2016 when I joined and was added by Pat to the WhatsApp group he established to connect fabricators nationwide. Shortly after joining, while on a job in Cork, we faced a shortage of 16 special bolts. Despite efforts, no supplier could fulfil our need. I reached out through the WhatsApp group, and remarkably, within hours, a fellow member whom I'd never met before drove over a hundred miles to assist me. This experience truly showcased the incredible potential of connecting individuals who share similar day-to-day challenges.

Such instances are a daily occurrence at Irish Steel, where the team actively provides practical support to its members.

The organisation experienced challenges during the Covid lockdowns, which impacted many people and businesses. However, Irish Steel has now reinvigorated itself, moving past the dark days of Covid. The Association is investing heavily, emerging stronger, more focused, and better than ever. I am honoured to be part of this team, which organised the first-ever awards ceremony tailored for the metalworking industry in Ireland. It was extraordinary to witness so many like-minded individuals gathered, celebrating achievements, and fostering business relationships. I eagerly anticipate the 2024 Irish Steel Awards Dinner & Gala Night.

Earlier, I mentioned the power of connections. Being allied with this team, benefiting from their knowledge, experience, and network, is something that industry members should earnestly consider.

Irish Steel is managed by industry veterans who have established a vast network of members, both domestically and internationally. They have also convened a cadre of technical and business expert consultants aligned with Irish Steel to serve our members. This team, proficient in steel fabrication, manufacturing, and various aspects of running successful manufacturing and contracting businesses, is dedicated to helping members reduce waste, avoid errors, prevent financial losses, build resilience, stimulate growth, innovate, ensure safety, comply with legal requirements, boost profits, diversify, innovate, and scale – the list is extensive.

Kind regards,

Fergus Naughton

2024 President of Irish Steel

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