【SMM Aluminum Flash News】US-Based MEC Plans $26 Million Metal Fabrication Expansion, Creating 140 Jobs

The global outdoor living market is projected to reach $215 billion by 2027, with smart aluminum pergolas gaining attention across residential and commercial markets in North America and Europe. Rising demand for durable, low-maintenance and technology-enabled outdoor structures is supporting aluminum adoption, driven by its corrosion resistance, design flexibility and relatively low maintenance requirements. Smart aluminum pergolas combine modern architectural design with integrated technology, serving applications such as residential gardens and commercial outdoor spaces. Growing investment in outdoor living spaces could further support demand for aluminum extrusions and value-added fabricated products in the construction sector.

Nikon Advanced Manufacturing has joined a $5.5 million US-funded project to develop high-strength aluminum alloys for additive manufacturing, collaborating with General Atomics, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, Airbus and other industry partners. The project, funded by the US defense manufacturing technology program, aims to develop a corrosion-resistant aluminum alloy equivalent to 7075-T73 and establish validated material data and qualification standards for laser powder bed fusion (PBF-LB) systems across large, medium and small formats. The initiative is expected to support wider adoption of high-performance aluminum components in aerospace, defense and commercial manufacturing, strengthening US advanced aluminum manufacturing capabilities.

Ohio-based aluminum products manufacturer Shapes Unlimited expects $4.5–5 million in additional costs this year due to US aluminum tariffs and higher freight charges linked to the Middle East conflict. US aluminum tariffs have increased from 10% to 25% and subsequently 50%, raising input costs, while container shipping surcharges from some suppliers have reached up to $6,500 per container, further squeezing downstream manufacturing margins. The company said it cannot fully pass higher costs on to customers and has paused new hiring while increasing investment in robotic assembly. Meanwhile, ongoing US-Canada trade tensions are complicating cross-border supply chains and business expansion. Combined pressure from tariffs, freight costs and supply uncertainty could further weaken the cost competitiveness of some US aluminum fabricators and finished-product manufacturers.