Recently I received some information that 3M shared regarding first half insights:
The key takeaways are not so much the market, or sales, performance, as that is company-specific and/or projections from Cleveland Research, and the information is as of June. The key is considering market trends. Key “strong” markets are:
- Aerospace
- Contractor
- Food Products
- Government
- Medical
- Mining / Aggregates
- Primary Metals
- Utility
Further, anything tied to data centers … whether you have one in your market or service a company that has strong sales into this market (consider certain types of construction equipment or selected computer equipment, or electrical / plumbing and HVAC OEMs who sell into this market.)
These are the growth areas that will enable strong performance through the end of this year and into 2027.
We’ve seen data from S&P projecting into 2027 and early forecasts, barring any changes in the Middle East conflict that could impact US petrochemical production, is more of the same. Continued growth from data centers (due to those already approved where “dirt has been moved”), the MRO needs of existing data centers, industrial develop “south of the Mason-Dixon line and in selected other areas”, utility modernization (driven by digital and electrical needs), and then the other markets that continue to grow. Interest rates are constricting other development as is employment mobility coupled with access to employees. The rise in fuel costs inhibits consumer investment, and optimism, which are engines of growth.
So, as you look at Q4 and meeting goals, the mantra of the day is focus. Key in on selected customers.
As you look towards 2027, it is about taking share, productivity enhancement, and being intentional with strategies. Size has its benefits but being nimble and empowering locally can also win the day.
Looking for alternative thought processes or strategies to solicit what your customers are thinking, gives us a call and ask us about our GPS process to help you achieve your North Star and about our CSI approach to determine customer satisfaction … the same philosophy that the Big 3 automotive use.
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