The Quarry & Aggregates (Q&A) Forum

Rock Products Presents Part One of the Eighth Annual Quarry And Aggregates (Q&A) Forum: Industry Thought Leaders Open Up About The Aggregates Industry, Market Conditions, Trade Shows And Technology.

By Mark S. Kuhar and Josephine Patterson

Each year, Rock Products reaches out to industry thought leaders to get their take on the aggregates industry. In part one of this feature, manufacturers and service providers comment on the aggregates market, today’s challenges and what the future holds. Look for part two in the January 2025 issue of Rock Products. – Ed.

The U.S. Geological Survey is reporting decreased production, but aggregates operations are reporting business is good, as aggregates prices have increased and financial management is strong. What are you hearing from your construction-materials customers regarding business, market conditions and growth?

MARK KRAUSE: Right now, dependent upon what you believe, “a slowdown has started and will continue into 2025” or “things will remain steady and strong through 2025,” and you can find news that supports your position. Aggregate producers continue to report strong profits even with lower production levels at facilities. Price increases remaining from the last few years as well as lower cost due to supply chain normalcy have more than offset lower production and volume levels. I anticipate this trend to continue through 2025. Buying and selling of properties to further strengthen or exit certain markets will continue in 2025 as well.

Now some areas of the country have seen more of a slowdown than other areas. Florida, Texas and Arizona remain very solid while areas of the upper Midwest have definitely decreased. Even though interest rates have lowered, some, we have not seen a real jump in housing starts yet. That coupled with a slowing of commercial building leaves only infrastructure related volumes as a growth.

I do believe the election will have some effect on business levels and volumes. Infrastructure is not one of the critical elements of the economy being discussed much at a national level.

PETER KILMURRAY: Overall, we are hearing positive feedback from our customers regarding market conditions. California and Texas, which are typically the largest aggregates market leaders, have seen growth in aggregates prices in 2024. Ohio, which does not typically have the same growth levels as California and Texas, is also seeing growth. It’s exciting for both us and our customers there to have Ohio on pace with the biggest U.S. markets.

JOHNNIE GARRISON: In many regions, producers are still facing workforce shortages, making it difficult for some to meet demand. We believe this has contributed to a reduction in the national tonnage report. Despite these challenges, producers remain busy, with many telling us they’re struggling to build out their stockpiles because demand for their products is strong.

RUSS BURNS: Customer feedback has been positive with regard to the demand for aggregate equipment. Market conditions remain very competitive as supply and demand levels have continued to stabilize this year. We are seeing greater demand for products that offer higher production with fewer operational support requirements. Basically, customers want to do more, with less and improve their return on Investments quicker. While there is a sense of optimism about current business conditions, customers remain cautious about potential economic fluctuations. They are monitoring market trends and are prepared to adjust their strategies based on external factors such as inflation and interest rates. Many customers seem to be prioritizing sustainability in their operations and continuing to explore options to optimize their operations.

PIERRE VILLERE: We can confirm we are hearing the same thing: volumes are down slightly in some places, but as much as 15% to 20 % in other markets. Margins are up, however, and profitability is stable and tracking with last year.

TOD EBERLE: Most customers expect business to be good especially post-election. Factors like weather have slowed production but will turn into a positive as business ramps back up.

ALEX KANARIS: For many industries business has declined in 2024. However, aggregate production was not affected by the business downturn of other industries. I have spoken with producers of construction materials and they believe that the outcome of the current election will lead to an increase in the infrastructure budget, which should drive higher demand for aggregates. While other industry sectors are showing signs of weakness, the aggregate market has remained stable, and we expect production to grow.

JOSH SWANK: It has been a steady 2024 from our perspective with a sort of leveling out from the 2020-2023 years. Most producers have gotten through their equipment backlogs, so now it’s more of a steady growth. It’s common to see midyear dips during election years and 2024 has been no exception; however, we have seen an uptick in orders which we expect to continue through the first quarter of 2025. It’s difficult to say what 2025 will bring. Much of the aggregates outlook will depend on transportation initiatives and where government dollars are being invested. If roads are a significant focus, aggregates demand should increase and make for another steady year.

IAN EDWARDS: MAJOR has seen a bit of a mixed picture in the construction materials market with different sectors responding to current conditions in a variety of ways.

Many construction materials customers are reporting a somewhat cautious optimism. On the one hand, the increases in aggregate prices are providing a lift to certain operations. Aggregates producers in particular seem to be benefiting from the rise in pricing power, driven by continued infrastructure projects and a strong demand in residential and commercial construction in many regions. The fact that financial management is solid for those businesses suggests they are adapting well to market shifts – whether by improving operational efficiencies or better managing supply chain challenges.

At the same time, however, there are some concerns around the global production slowdown. The reported decreases could be affecting some parts of the market, especially in regions where raw material availability is constrained. Some construction materials companies are seeing tight supply chains for key components like cement, steel and certain aggregates, which is influencing pricing and project timelines.

The overall market growth seems to be driven by major infrastructure projects (such as those supported by government spending on public works, transportation and energy), but some are worried about the potential for a slowdown as interest rates remain high and overall construction demand begins to normalize. Commercial real estate, for example, is experiencing some challenges due to market uncertainty, which might eventually ripple out into construction materials demand.

It seems like the outlook for 2025 will largely depend on regional markets, project pipeline strength and how businesses navigate cost pressures and competition for resources. There’s a lot of attention on how companies balance short-term price increases with long-term sustainability, especially in terms of labor and materials supply.

RYAN O’LOAN: There’s a sense of cautious optimism in the market. While production volumes may have seen fluctuations, aggregate producers seem bullish on the medium- to long-term market. Demand for construction materials in the public sector will continue to be fueled by federal funding programs (IJJA) for several years to come, while private sector construction of data centers, manufacturing plants and other key infrastructure builds remains hot. Customers are leveraging higher prices and still reporting record quarters, allowing for strong CAPEX budgets to reinvest in equipment upgrades and new technologies that improve both output and profitability. The emphasis on innovation and adaptability suggests a strong foundation for continued growth, even in the face of external pressures. 

RONAN DUFFY: Post-Covid, the construction sector in the United States continues to show great resilience. Costs continue to be a big factor and still sit significantly higher than they were in early 2020. That said, there is an expectation that some of these challenging conditions will ease next year in light of federal rate cuts, evident through the volume of projects across a range of sectors that commenced planning over the summer months. The election result points towards a more favorable regulatory environment too, meaning there is also some confidence in the market for continued growth in construction. 

BARRY HUDSON: Across the board in the United States, aggregate volumes are down, in some cases 10% to 20%. However, in a significant break from the past, pricing appears to be holding, and many producers signaling semi aggressive (by historical standards) price hikes in 2025. Our own analysis on pricing performance in aggregates shows an even greater gap or opportunity on the pricing side as the industry has yet to adopt proper pricing processes, taking advantage of market segmentation or other low hanging fruit opportunities.

How is business for your company these days? Where geographically are you seeing strength versus weakness in the U.S. market?

GARRISON: When we look back at 2024, I don’t believe we’re going to see any softening. Demand is still strong and we’re experiencing growth in all of Superior’s major product segments: crushing, screening, washing and conveying. Here are a few highlights we noticed:

• When interest rates started rising, the market shifted to renting versus buying.
• Manufacturing lead times, while not as red hot as the previous couple of years, have more or less normalized.
• After battling supply issues, dealers are loaded up with stock equipment.
• There is a lot of activity surrounding major projects in the pipeline.
• The most active markets for Superior continue to be in the South and west of the Rockies

BURNS: Business has been relatively strong, particularly as demand for aggregate-processing equipment continues to grow. Many of our customers are investing in new technologies to enhance efficiency and meet increasing production demands. We’re also experiencing a positive response to our latest product offerings, including our newest release the CRC1350S plant, which features high productivity and improved performance. Geographically, we have seen areas in the North showing signs of recovery, particularly with initiatives aimed at improving roads and bridges. The Midwest has been showing robust signs of growth driven by customers looking to replace aged equipment rather than repair older equipment. Increased distributor stock levels in other markets have positioned them well to respond to market demands and fluctuations with existing inventory, while other areas are showing varying market conditions.

KRAUSE: Business levels, for us, have remained very strong. A little slower than the post-pandemic levels of the last few years, but very strong when compared to a “normal” business level. 

KILMURRAY: Business overall has been very good for us, in part due to the popularity of the new features of our Niagara F-Class vibrating screen. We are also seeing an increasing number of aggregates producers turning to our Pulse diagnostics suite to take a proactive approach to maintenance. Demand for these and our other technologies is very strong. Because so many operations are growing, they are looking for bigger machines and running them more. They need reliable solutions to keep their equipment up and running.

While California, Texas and Ohio have had the most significant growth in 2024, Wyoming and the northeastern United States have also been particularly strong this year. Other areas of the country haven’t hit the same growth rates, but they are still strong as well. We believe the market as a whole is very positive.

VILLERE: Remember that we are not aggregate-equipment producers, so our view is through the lens of an investment banking firm. But we are ending the year with the best revenue in the 43 years we have been in business.

EBERLE: Texas slowed down some due to weather early in the year, but the rest of the country and Canada are strong. We are seeing increased business in California and parts of the Midwest. 

SWANK: Business is steady overall, and we continue to see strong needs specifically in Texas and markets east of the Mississippi. One area that we didn’t foresee having demand is Indiana. In 2024, we’ve seen a lot of growth in new equipment purchases from producers in that state.

O’LOAN: While there is no doubt a general plateau in the aggregates and equipment industry, thankfully CDE continues to see growth in the United States, fueled in part by CDE’s expanding preferred partner network. Recycling, in particular, is gaining traction in urban areas, as waste processors capitalize on the rising costs of virgin aggregates, transportation and clean fill disposal fees. We expect solid growth in 2025, following the slower pace typical of an election year.

DUFFY: As infrastructure investments begin to ramp up, we remain focused on engineering solutions that can meet these challenges while delivering optimum return on investment, maximizing reserves, occupying as small a footprint as possible and minimizing the need for fresh water in a time where water itself is a scarce resource.

HUDSON: Sales volumes appear to be down across the board. The surprising phenomena has been that aggregates are holding their price levels, especially in comparison to other construction materials such as concrete or asphalt. However, at the time of writing, we are starting to observe downward pricing pressure, especially on the East Coast.

EDWARDS: The aggregate screen media business overall has been somewhat resilient, but there’s variability in terms of both demand and market dynamics across different regions.

Strengths in the aggregate screen media business include:

Infrastructure and Road Projects: The increased investment in infrastructure, particularly in road repairs and upgrades, has been a significant driver for aggregate producers. These projects require large volumes of screened aggregates, which means higher demand for screen media solutions. In particular, places with substantial state and federal funding for transportation projects (e.g., parts of the Midwest, Southeast and Western United States) are likely to see stronger growth.

Heavy Construction and Urban Development: Major cities in regions like the Southwest, Southeast and parts of the West Coast (e.g., Texas, Arizona, Florida, California) have strong construction activity in both residential and commercial sectors, which directly impacts demand for aggregates and associated screening equipment. As cities expand, the need for construction materials grows, driving steady demand for screening media.

Rising Commodity Prices and Focus on Efficiency: With higher aggregate prices, producers are focusing more on maximizing efficiency at the production level to get the most out of the materials they have. This has led to increased investments in higher-quality and more durable screen media that can help boost production uptime and reduce costs in the long run. Custom solutions of premium quality materials (FLEX-MAT & FLEX-MAT Modular) are in demand to improve performance and reduce maintenance.

Weaknesses in the aggregate screen media business include:

Regional Variability in Demand: Some regions are experiencing a slowdown in construction and aggregate production, particularly areas that were previously seeing a boom but are now adjusting to market cycles. For instance, parts of the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic may experience slower growth compared to regions that are seeing infrastructure-driven projects. Similarly, some areas that had seen a rush in residential construction, such as certain suburbs and exurban areas, are now facing cooling demand as interest rates affect home buying activity.

Supply Chain Issues and Raw Material Costs: There is still fragility in supply chains for both raw materials and finished goods. Delays and inflation in raw material costs, such as steel or rubber for screen media, are affecting margins and project timelines. As a result, some producers may be holding back on purchasing new or replacement screening equipment unless absolutely necessary.

Shifts in Energy and Mining Activity: Certain regions that were previously dependent on energy sector activity or mining have seen a decline in demand for aggregates. For example, areas in the Appalachian region and parts of the Dakotas that saw growth tied to energy exploration may not be seeing as much demand, especially as some energy projects slow down or are delayed.

In general, the aggregate screen media business benefits from infrastructure and construction booms, but regional economic fluctuations can have a significant impact. The challenge for companies in this space is balancing supply chain issues and fluctuating demand with the need to offer tailored, efficient solutions to customers.

What problems are you solving for aggregates producers? Give an example of how your equipment has made or can make a difference at an aggregates operation. What is the latest technology that you have introduced, if any?

KANARIS: Our company is supporting the aggregate market by designing and manufacturing drum motors for powering belt conveyors. VDG is continuously investing in advanced drum motor technology to address and eliminate required maintenance, improve throughput, and reduce downtime.

BURNS: Our focus as a manufacturer has always been very customer focused. We’ve specialized in efficiency and productivity as aggregates producers often face challenges in maximizing throughput while minimizing downtime. Our equipment is designed to streamline operations, reducing the time spent on material handling and processing. Cost reductions also have been key to the innovations to our products. Rising operational costs are a significant concern. We help producers lower costs through energy-efficient electric and diesel equipment to optimized processes, leading to reduced operational expenses and greater production volumes. We are currently developing control systems that monitor the performance of crushing and screening equipment in real-time. This technology gathers operational data, predicts maintenance needs and enhances efficiency. By implementing this system, producers can achieve significant gains in operational efficiency and reduce unplanned downtime, ultimately leading to increased profitability.

EBERLE: We help with efficiency gains due to our wide selection of products that can be customized for each operation. We can focus on providing custom solutions for particular circuits in an operation to improve efficiency. 

SWANK: We custom engineer all our equipment to help producers overcome the specific hauling challenges they face in their operation. Our Autogate Tailgates are one of our most popular products for the aggregates industry. The simple addition of a tailgate can increase a haul truck’s capacity by up to 20% while reducing spillage from the rear of the truck body. We offer a wide range of custom solutions to address other issues such as sideboards to reduce spillage from the sides of the truck body and load ejectors for operations dealing with a lot of carryback. All of our solutions help operations solve the problems that lead to inefficiencies in their hauling process.

Our patented HiVol Water Tanks offer an efficient, easy way to suppress dust on haul roads with the ability to spray a haul road in just one pass. Our water tanks are built with superior-grade steel for increased longevity and maximum ROI. And, unlike round and trapezoidal tanks that typically utilize only 80% of the truck’s capacity to prevent churning, we incorporate a square design that lowers the center of gravity and maximizes the haul truck’s capabilities.

Additionally, one question many aggregates producers face is, “How do I make my operation more sustainable?” We are excited to now say that we offer zero-emission steel as an option for our entire product line.

KRAUSE: Being able to process and transform marginal materials or deposits continues to grow and I expect will. As the “easy” deposits are depleted or too far from the need, scrubbing and attrition to produce clean quality aggregates drives demand. Handling clay and lignite and other contaminants continue to pop up as well.

Handling and recycling water due to environmental or economic reasons or both are quickly growing issues in our marketplace. The lack of water, especially the further west you get, the more the need to recycle as much water as possible. Tie the cost and the handling of water with the added water needs to process the dirtier deposits, all adds up to solutions tailored to each site’s needs and constraints.

KILMURRAY: The aggregates market is growing every year, and more plants are now operating 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Sunday, rather than just 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. With longer operating hours, it’s crucial to use tools that keep equipment up and running at peak performance.

Our Pulse diagnostics suite continues to be a popular solution for our customers in the aggregates sector, particularly Pulse Vibration Analysis (Pulse VA). Pulse VA gives producers insight into their equipment by detecting irregularities that could cause diminished performance, decreased efficiency, increased operating costs and breakdowns. We also offer a Pulse Impact Test to ensure that screening equipment is properly tuned to avoid operating in resonance, and Pulse Condition Monitoring for operations looking to use predictive data and artificial intelligence to assist with maintenance and production planning.

We are hearing a lot about the importance of ease of maintenance and access from our customers as well. We recently redesigned our Niagara F-Class inclined vibrating screen with lockbolts, which are advantageous because they streamline the service process. Technicians can simply swap out the bar rail or cross member without having to take the entire top of the machine apart. It’s received a lot of very good feedback as well for the 100% bolted body design, which eliminated welds used in the previous model.

GARRISON: Permitting delays can be a challenge, but with our portfolio of pre-engineered modular platforms, we’re helping aggregate producers speed up the process for securing permits for new plants or expansions. In fact, we’ve got a record backlog for our Fusion Modular Platforms.

Fusion Modular Platforms are pre-engineered, semi-static structures designed to integrate with Superior’s crushing, screening, washing and conveying equipment. Their modular design accelerates installation and reduces permitting delays, allowing producers to get up and running faster. Additionally, they offer cost-effective scalability and easier maintenance, making them a flexible solution for expanding or upgrading operations.

DUFFY: Every day, one of the major concerns of sand and aggregate producers is the loss of saleable sand to ponds due to inefficient processes, whether it be screws, bucket wheels or even inefficient cyclones. As natural reserves begin to deplete, we’re coming up against more challenging feed material. At CDE, we believe our systems are the most efficient on the market to maximize the quality of the materials being produced, often by processing some of the most difficult feed, a lot of which has been historically classed as waste. This is helping divert valuable materials from landfill – materials that are adding great value to the concrete market, for example – and increasing product yield to support sustainable construction, all while preserving finite natural resources.

In June, at Hillhead, we officially launched the CDE ProPress. Built for the waste recycling industry, ProPress uses a dual feed and increased chamber volume to handle more material, producing a dryer cake product, while recycling 95% of its process water. This innovative solution incorporates the latest in robotic technology and automation to ensure safe, efficient operation while reducing cycle times and operating costs, to help maximize processing outputs.

O’LOAN: CDE has always pioneered innovation and advanced technology in sand and aggregate production. But today, water management stands out as a critical challenge. For many producers, effective water management is not just an environmental responsibility – it has become essential to ensure their operations remain viable. We recently showcased these solutions at an open house with Granite Construction in Salt Lake City. In this dry climate, balancing limited water availability with the need for high-spec washed aggregates required a carefully designed solution. Our water treatment solutions enabled Granite to wash more than 500 tph of aggregates while consuming only 180 gpm of freshwater. This closed-loop system enabled Granite to operate without ponds and simplifies their mine reclamation plane when work concludes.

EDWARDS: Aggregate producers often face a variety of challenges in their operations, ranging from equipment downtime and inefficiency to rising costs and increasing demand for high-quality materials. The right screen media technology can have a significant impact on addressing these issues and helping operations achieve better productivity, reduce maintenance costs and maximize throughput. 

Common problems aggregates producers face include:

Unplanned downtime and maintenance:

• Problem: Frequent breakdowns or wear-and-tear on screen media can lead to unplanned downtime, which is costly for aggregates producers. If screen media isn’t durable enough, it can quickly wear out, especially when dealing with harsh materials like high-abrasion aggregates.
• Solution: MAJOR offers longer-lasting durable screen media solutions that can handle abrasive materials, such as a combination of MAJOR’s Optimum wire, and multi choice polyurethane pending application and situation. These types of options, designed for a specific scenario can greatly reduce downtime and keep operations running efficiently.

Inconsistent material sizing and product quality:

• Problem: Aggregates producers need to consistently produce material within specific size ranges to meet customer specifications. However, poor screening efficiency can lead to inconsistent sizing, which impacts product quality and can result in additional costs if material needs to be reprocessed.
• Solution: MAJOR’s advanced screening technology provides more consistent and accurate sizing that can make a huge difference. Using a combination of high-quality wire, polyurethane or wire modular screen media allows for better stratification and higher efficiency in material separation. 

High operational costs:

• Problem: Rising energy, labor, and material costs can squeeze margins, and aggregates producers are always looking for ways to reduce operational expenses.
• Solution: MAJOR’s Flex-Mat screen media is designed to reduce friction, improve material flow and last longer. With this, we can assist in lowering operational costs in the long run for our partners. Additionally, our Flex-Mat, and Flex-Mat Modular screen media systems allow for quick and easy maintenance, reducing labor costs and minimizing downtime.

Wear and tear from abrasive materials:

• Problem: Many aggregate operations deal with abrasive materials like crushed stone or gravel, which cause rapid wear on traditional screen media, resulting in higher replacement costs and frequent maintenance.
• Solution: Utilizing higher-quality materials, such as MAJOR’s Optimum wire screen media, can significantly improve wear resistance and reduce replacement cycles. 

One of the more recent innovations is the introduction of MAJOR’s ID-enabled screen media. These smart screens can provide real-time data on the detail and the spec of the screen in question. However, much greater use of the enabled screen media is soon to follow. 

Benefits: Improved predictive maintenance, reduced downtime, and optimized screen media life. This technology is part of MAJOR’s broader trend toward data-driven operations in helping the aggregates industry, which will in turn help producers make more informed decisions and improve operational efficiency.

Another innovation is the development of hybrid screen media systems, which combine the best qualities of different materials – such as the durability of polyurethane with the strength of MAJOR’s OPTIMUM steel-wire cloth (MAJOR’s FLEX-MAT and FLEX-MAT Modular). These systems are designed to maximize both performance and longevity while minimizing maintenance costs.

Benefits: Better efficiency, improved material flow, and reduced operational downtime due to the more robust combination of materials. The hybrid approach also provides flexibility in terms of performance and customization to meet specific aggregate processing needs.

MAJOR’s FLEX-MAT & FLEX-MAT Modular screen media are designed to address the problems of material buildup, which is especially common in wet or sticky materials. By incorporating anti-clogging technologies, these screens help ensure that material flows consistently without blockages, reducing the need for manual intervention and increasing uptime.

Benefits: Fewer stoppages, lower labor costs, and enhanced processing efficiency, particularly in challenging environments.

Conclusion: Screen media technology plays a critical role in optimizing aggregates operations. Whether it’s improving operational efficiency, reducing downtime, enhancing product quality or cutting costs, modern screen media systems can significantly impact the bottom line. Advances in materials (like polyurethane and hybrid systems) and innovations in RFID and self-cleaning technology are helping producers stay ahead of the curve in terms of both performance and cost-effectiveness.

HUDSON: We are assisting aggregates producers to increase revenue through defined pricing processes. Even if the market for 2025 will reject your across-the-board price increases, we can help producers increase their revenues through robust pricing processes and executing the correct strategies in each market they operate in. There is a gross misconception in the industry that pricing is a simple thing. If you don’t have a process tailored to your customer base, you are invariably missing out on 4% to 12% revenue – and this is without applying your blanket annual increase.

This was a MINExpo year. If you attended the show what were your thoughts on the event, and the products and innovations now entering the market?

KILMURRAY: MINExpo was probably our most successful show in many years. We were excited to see how many aggregates producers and suppliers attended. With required output increasing and many producers now operating in 12-hour shifts, there was great interest in diagnostics technology and how critical it can be to achieving and maintaining that higher production. We were thrilled with the constant traffic in our booth over all three days. Interactions went beyond just handshakes and introductions – we’ve been having great, productive after-show discussions and meetings across North America. Conversations continue around so many of the topics that dominated MINExpo this year – sustainability, electrification, automation and safety.

KANARIS: This year, VDG exhibited at the MINExpo in Las Vegas, where we received significant interest in our products, particularly from South America. We are optimistic about the industry’s performance in 2025, with expectations for better results compared to 2024.

SWANK: MINExpo was an excellent show for us with a great turnout at our booth. Show attendees were engaged and interested to learn about what’s going on in the industry. I think this year was largely a year to breathe since we are out of the Covid era, given the last show occurred in 2021. There was still much innovation displayed this year, but the overarching theme was attendees taking time to learn what’s happening in the industry.

EDWARDS: MAJOR did attend MINExpo 2024. For MAJOR, the show highlighted several promising developments and areas of growth within the mining and aggregates sectors. From our perspective, there are a few key trends and markets where we are seeing strength and potential for continued growth. One, of course, is technology and automation. As expected, there was a very strong focus on the adoption of advanced technologies such as AI, automation and data analytics. These innovations are driving significant efficiency gains, particularly in areas like predictive maintenance and operational optimization. Companies are increasingly investing in smart mining solutions to improve safety, reduce costs and enhance productivity. 

Another is the continued focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility. Sustainability continues to be a major driver across both the mining and aggregates industries. There is growing emphasis on reducing the environmental impact of operations, with innovations in cleaner extraction methods, water management and energy efficiency. 

Lastly, in the areas of health, safety and workforce development, the industry is placing increased emphasis on safeguarding the well-being of its workforce. Alongside this focus, there is a continued investment in training programs aimed at equipping employees with the skills needed to effectively operate new technologies that mitigate operational risks. This is particularly critical as the industry faces challenges such as labor shortages and the growing trend toward automation, which requires a workforce with a broader skill set to manage increasingly sophisticated technologies.

Overall, the markets we see today reflect an industry that is evolving rapidly, driven by technological advancements and large sustainability goals. There are clear opportunities for growth, especially for companies that are proactive in embracing these changes.

O’LOAN: With our strategic focus on the aggregate and recycling sectors, we did not attend MINExpo this year. However, we followed the event closely through online content and were inspired by the innovation and progress showcased by our peers in the industry. One standout was CAT’s Dynamic Energy Transfer System, which addresses a complex challenge with creativity and boldness – a mindset we at CDE deeply admire and applaud. It’s always exciting to see solutions that push boundaries and contribute to the industry’s advancement.

By many accounts this has been a soft year. How do you expect the industry to perform in 2025? Do you expect market expansion? Will you participate in AGG1 in St. Louis?

KILMURRAY: We have been fortunate that 2024 has been very good for us with numerous special projects moving forward. Based on what we have seen this year and the conversations we’ve had with our industry colleagues, we expect a similar 2025. Company representatives will be attending AGG1 and are looking forward to being in St. Louis for the show. In addition to our booth space, where we plan to showcase a portable plant with our Niagara F-class, we will be presenting an educational session about maximizing equipment productivity with diagnostics. Our experts are excited for the opportunity to speak about how our solutions work with aggregates producers’ equipment to ensure everything is running optimally.

HUDSON: Overall, from our market studies, talking with clients and looking at the majors quarterly reports, it is safe to say that volumes are down, but profitability is acceptable. This hopefully shows a maturity in the aggregates industry that hasn’t been there previously. You only need to look at the results from previous years where inflation was rampant, companies had record revenues, but not record profits. Long may this continue. AGG1 was a very good show for Price Bee in 2024, we expect to be there in 2025 also.

GARRISON: It seems presidential elections always slow things down a bit. However, as we get past that, we’re predicting similar success in 2025. As to AGG1, we look forward to celebrating our shared success and showcase some of our gear in St. Louis. The highlight of our booth will be a 51 x 55 Sentry Horizontal Shaft Impact Crusher.

KRAUSE: We have not really seen a softening until Q3 and that is compared to the crazy post-pandemic levels of the last two plus years. I expect to see a 5% decrease for 2025 as we sit right now. Where interest rates go, election results, the potential for oil to increase significantly due to conflict areas around the world, all could change that 5% quickly. Uncertainty will keep some people on the sidelines for 2025 which will mean the rental market should be strong. No one will want to commit long-term if uncertainty stays around. Also with taxes which will be in the news after the first of the year as well as things like the Depreciation Bonus continuing to decrease, unless something is done, the first part of the year will be critical to watch.

BURNS: Looking ahead to 2025, there are several indicators that suggest the potential for a stronger market in the aggregates industry, despite the challenges faced in recent years. Here are some key factors that could shape the industry’s performance. We will be keeping a close eye on continued infrastructure spending, which we think will help drive projects in 2025, as well as continued economic recovery for the construction segment. While many distributors sought to increase their equipment stock levels in 2022 and 2023, there will likely be a period before dealers deplete existing inventory and begin purchasing new equipment.

HARRISON: We are bullish on 2025. Falling interest rates, a pro-business administration, and work coming off hold will all propel the industry in 2025. I will be at AGG1 and will present on the state of the industry.

EBERLE: We will be at AGG1 in St. Louis. Even though it may have been a slow year, producers seem healthy and ready for 2025. The year 2024 has been very positive for Polydeck and we feel like 2025 will be even better. The market is healthy, and we continue to expand our products every year.

KANARIS: We are optimistic about the industry’s performance in 2025, with expectations for better results compared to 2024. VDG plans to attend and exhibit at AGG1 in St. Louis next year.

SWANK: Given we have seen a steady 2024 with an increase in sales at the end of the year, we believe that will continue into the first quarter of 2025. We will be attending AGG1 and are looking forward to presenting an educational seminar at the show. It will be an exciting opportunity to cover water tank features that optimize dust suppression on haul roads and stockpiles in quarries, along with best practices, case studies and practical solutions to empower aggregates producers with cost-effective dust control strategies.

DUFFY: While 2024 was a slower year for many, our preferred partner network has enabled us to enter into more new markets across North America. We are committed to creating customers for life and in order to deliver this we work with preferred partners who can offer CDE equipment and spare parts at the quickest lead time to ensure maximum uptime and continued return on investment. Our preferred partner network ensures that we work collaboratively and directly with producers to respond, solve problems, and constantly adapt.

O’LOAN: We anticipate strong growth in 2025, following a typical election year slowdown where projects often stall, and decisions are deferred. Throughout 2024, we’ve observed a surge in feasibility studies and capital expenditure plans, setting the stage for implementation in the coming year. With November’s election results, aggregate producers are showing confidence in the market, with significant investments in sustainable aggregate sources that align with future demands. Additionally, we’re seeing a clear trend of major players acquiring recycling companies, further highlighting the industry’s shift toward circular economy principles and long-term resilience.

CDE will be both exhibiting (booth #2622) and speaking at AGG1 in March as part of a panel of waste recycling champions under its Environmental & Sustainability education track.

What in your opinion are the two or three biggest challenges facing the aggregates industry today?

VILLERE: The same challenges that we have faced for years: labor and regulation. The industry does a great job of working to solve both.

KANARIS: There are various opinions on what is preventing the growth of the aggregate industry. Three key challenges that stand out are government regulations, quality equipment manufacturing and supply chain issues. As we move forward, we encourage American companies to support one another by prioritizing the purchase of domestically made products.

GARRISON: Access to labor: The aggregates industry is facing a significant shortage of skilled labor. With an aging workforce and fewer young workers entering the field, many operations struggle to meet production demands, increasing labor costs and impacting overall efficiency. Knowledge transfer: As seasoned workers retire, the industry risks losing valuable expertise. Ensuring that critical industry knowledge is passed to the next generation through mentorship and training is essential to maintaining operational standards and long-term growth.

EBERLE: Labor in general seems to be a large issue. Attracting quality people into management has always been difficult. 

SWANK: The Waters of the U.S. amendment to the Clean Waters Act has presented a significant challenge to the aggregates industry. A great deal of aggregate material, such as sand and gravel, comes from stream beds. The number of waterways categorized as navigable under WOTUS is having a significant impact on the aggregates industry.

Additionally, the Mine Safety and Health Administration passed a rule change this year to reduce miners’ exposure to crystalline silica dust. Operations in coal, metal and nonmetal mines will now have to implement additional methods to control and monitor crystalline silica dust exposure to remain compliant. This new regulation is another reason our Water Tanks are a critical tool for efficiently suppressing dust in quarries.

Labor shortages also continue to affect the aggregates sector. We can help quarries maximize their workforce by optimizing what they are doing with their haul truck fleet. With custom solutions, producers can increase their hauling potential while using fewer trucks.

EDWARDS: The aggregates industry, like many other sectors, is navigating a complex landscape marked by both significant opportunities and a range of challenges. While there are many issues at play, I believe the two or three biggest challenges facing the industry today are:

Supply chain disruptions and raw material costs. As stated prior, the global supply chain has been under strain for several years now, and the aggregates industry is no exception. The production of aggregates relies heavily on a consistent supply of raw materials such as gravel, sand and crushed stone, but disruptions in both local and global supply chains have made these materials more expensive and harder to procure. The price of key components like steel for equipment and machinery, critical to operations such as screening, crushing and transportation has also increased.

Labor shortages and workforce challenges. Another major hurdle is the ongoing shortage of skilled labor in the aggregates sector. The industry has faced difficulty attracting and retaining workers, especially in critical roles such as operators for heavy machinery, skilled labor for maintenance and engineering staff. A combination of an aging workforce, labor market competition from other sectors and the challenge of offering competitive wages and working conditions has compounded this issue.

Environmental and regulatory pressures. The increasing emphasis on sustainability and stricter environmental regulations will continue to present some challenges for the aggregates industry. As environmental concerns intensify, the sector is facing greater scrutiny regarding its impact on ecosystems, water resources and air quality. Regulatory bodies are implementing more stringent controls over mining practices, reclamation processes, dust emissions and noise pollution, all of which influence how aggregates producers conduct their operations. While much of this focus is driven by the need to protect our environment and represents a positive and necessary direction, it’s essential that we continue to work collaboratively across the industry to ensure that these improvements are implemented in a consistent and effective manner.

KILMURRAY: Finding skilled workers continues to be a challenge, which is another reason customers value our diagnostics tools to keep equipment performing at a high level. The new lockbolt design on our vibrating screens also simplifies maintenance and reduces skilled labor needs. To further assist our customers in North America, we have service technicians in Canada and the United States who are dedicated to working directly with customers. If short on staff, we have the capability to send a technician to work with their maintenance team on a monthly basis. Beyond labor needs, we know our customers rely on government approval for large restructure projects that require aggregate material. They also need to work with their local communities to overcome objections to plant expansions or green field projects.

BURNS: One major area we have been monitoring is the labor market. The industry is facing a skilled labor shortage that impacts productivity and operational efficiency. Manufacturers and producers are finding it increasingly challenging to attract and retain qualified workers, as younger generations pursuing careers in other sectors. The search for knowledgeable and skilled employees remains an ongoing struggle for the aggregate industry.

Another key challenge is sustainability and environmental regulations. As environmental concerns grow, aggregate producers must navigate increasingly stringent regulations regarding emissions, land use and resource conservation. Balancing operational efficiency with sustainability goals is a critical challenge, requiring investment in cleaner technologies and practices to minimize environmental impact. This has been a primary driver for Terex MPS as we continue to be a market leader offering fully electric plants, combining high portability without sacrificing production. We’ve focused on designing and engineering products that are easy to operate, while also enhancing plant operations, reducing complexity, and maximizing uptime. With over 100 years of industry experience, we bring the expertise to instill confidence in our customers as the market increasingly relies on distributors and manufacturers to provide the right equipment for each job.

HUDSON: As usual, an ageing workforce. Maintaining or increasing prices in a market that may continue to be soft. As more companies harness the power of data, making sure you understand your own market dynamics and have plans in place to exploit your strengths, and protect your weaknesses.