1. What regulations are you preparing for or watching in the coming year?
DeZURIK Leadership Team: We are actively preparing for compliance with the EPA’s forthcoming PFAS reporting rule, ensuring our operations align with environmental regulations. Simultaneously, we remain dedicated to adhering to the Build America, Buy America (BABA) provisions under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), which will be in effect through 2027. Our focus continues to prioritize the utilization of domestic materials, specifically in accordance with the American Iron and Steel (AIS) and Buy American Act (BAA) requirements. This commitment underscores our dedication to supporting American manufacturing, promoting sustainability and maintaining compliance with regulatory frameworks across all facets of our operations.
2. What key trends have emerged over the past year, and how are they shaping the market?
The global supply chain disruptions caused by the pandemic and resurgence in infrastructure investments have led to a renewed focus on supply chain resilience. Many manufacturers are now prioritizing suppliers with local manufacturing capabilities or diversified sourcing strategies to mitigate risks of delays and shortages. This trend has encouraged valve manufacturers to reshore or near-shore their production, particularly for critical industries like water treatment and energy, which require timely and reliable access to equipment.
Another global supply chain challenge in the market has been securing materials from international sources, largely due to supply chain disruptions caused by labor strikes and geopolitical conflicts. These events have introduced delays, increased transportation costs and limited the availability of critical raw materials. As a result, manufacturers face obstacles in maintaining production schedules, meeting customer demand and managing costs effectively.
3. How have any price increases of products or materials impacted you or your company?
The rising costs of logistics and the impact of supplier backlogs are creating financial and operational challenges for our business. However, through proactive supply chain management, diversification of suppliers and strategic partnerships, we are working to minimize these effects while maintaining the quality and reliability of our products and services for our customers.
4. What training or educational initiatives are being implemented to prepare the next generation of professionals?
We offer an extensive internship program that provides hands-on experience and mentorship for young professionals. Alongside practical exposure, we conduct training webinars and lunch-and-learn sessions to enhance both technical and soft skills.
We also offer a structured mentor/mentee program that pairs young professionals with experienced industry experts for personalized guidance. This program accelerates skill development, enhances decision-making and deepens understanding of industry dynamics, promoting continuous learning and long-term career growth while fostering future industry leaders. To assist the next generation of customers, DeZURIK offers extensive resource materials on our website and technical webinars.
In addition, to meet the growing demand for skilled machinists, we have established a comprehensive machinist education program designed specifically for our shop employees. This program not only addresses our current workforce demands but also invests in our employees’ career growth, fostering long-term retention and supporting our commitment to operational excellence.
5. What upcoming technologies or innovations do you foresee having the most significant impact on the industry in the next five years?
As industries face increasing pressure to reduce their environmental footprint, innovations in valve technology will focus on minimizing leakage, emissions, energy consumption and water conservation. Low-emission valve designs, along with advancements in sealing technology, will be crucial in meeting increasingly stringent regulations.
Valves that meet cleaner processes, such as hydrogen production, carbon capture and waste-to energy systems, will also see increased demand as the focus on sustainability intensifies across various industries.
In addition, the integration of AI tools may significantly benefit valve manufacturers by enhancing various aspects of their business. For example, AI-driven supply chain tools forecast demand, optimize inventory levels and manage logistics, helping manufacturers respond effectively to market fluctuations. Additionally, data analytics platforms utilize AI to analyze large datasets from production, sales and market trends, providing insights that inform strategic decision-making.
6. How has the global supply chain affected your business in the past year?
The global supply chain disruptions have impacted our business due to rising freight logistics prices. Increased costs driven by heightened demand, capacity constraints and supply chain disruptions have led to higher procurement prices for raw materials, which challenges our ability to maintain competitive pricing.
Delays in material delivery also affect project timelines, potentially leading to penalties and customer dissatisfaction. To mitigate these challenges, we are diversifying our supplier base, optimizing shipping routes, enhancing inventory management, securing long-term contracts with carriers and leveraging technology for better logistics visibility. These strategies help us navigate the complexities of the current market and uphold our commitment to our customers.
7. How have customer expectations changed in the past year, particularly regarding service, performance and sustainability?
In the past year, customer expectations for industrial valves have increased in terms of service, performance and sustainability. Customers now demand faster response times, enhanced technical support and predictive maintenance solutions. They also seek valves with greater reliability, durability and efficiency in extreme conditions. Additionally, there is a growing focus on sustainability, with customers prioritizing energy-efficient designs and environmentally friendly materials to align with stricter environmental regulations and carbon reduction goals.
8. What’s on your mind/what are you most concerned about?
The expansion of larger industrial facilities is creating an increasing demand for oversized equipment capable of handling higher capacities and greater operational demands.
The concern regarding customers not holding to specifications like BABA is significant and multifaceted. Noncompliance poses risks related to regulatory adherence, project quality and economic sustainability. By focusing on education, collaboration, transparency and advocacy, we can encourage adherence to BABA specifications, ensuring the integrity of infrastructure projects and supporting the broader objectives of domestic manufacturing and economic growth.
9. What are you most looking forward to in 2025?
Increased capacity and sustained strength in the municipal markets are driving substantial growth opportunities for our business, particularly in water and wastewater treatment and infrastructure development. Federal and state investments from the BIL are enhancing public infrastructure and creating demand for high-quality compliant valves. To capitalize on these opportunities, we are increasing our manufacturing capacity, expanding our product portfolio and enhancing marketing efforts.
10. What else should end users know about the year ahead?
End users will be impacted by several key factors and trends that will influence their purchasing decisions:
- Expect ongoing disruptions that may lead to longer lead times. Advance planning and maintaining buffer stock are advisable.
- Prepare for inflation in logistics and material costs, potentially resulting in price increases.
- Stay informed about stricter environmental regulations and certification standards to ensure valve selections meet compliance requirements.
- Government investment in infrastructure will drive demand for compliant valves, increasing competition among suppliers. Evaluate multiple options for best value.
The DeZURIK leadership team is comprised of Melinda Vonderahe (vice president of marketing), Rachel Hollinger (executive vice president, industrial) and Tim Nebosis (executive vice president, municipal). Visit dezurik.com.