There are new things happening at ALMCO in 2025. It has been a while since I wrote about our business as we focused our efforts on other methods of communication. This year, we have decided to get back to our quarterly updates.
Enhanced Sales Structure for Better Customer Service
In January and February, we reorganized our sales structure to better serve our dealers and customers. Our new structure includes a dedicated sales channel specifically for our dealer network. By assigning personnel exclusively focused on dealer relationships, we can ensure faster, localized responses to customer needs. Dealers will now have designated account managers to assist with new projects and who will work with the factory on supplies, parts, and service needs.
If you are located in an area covered by a dealer, and reach out to ALMCO, you may also be contacted by our dealer regarding your request. This change aligns with our strategy to make continuous improvements for our customers.
Product Roadmap: Innovation and Improvement
Another exciting change is in our updated product roadmap. We have identified new products to design, some existing products to improve, and legacy products to retire. Over the next three years, ALMCO will be introducing several new products and improvements. These changes will keep ALMCO on the leading edge of technology while incorporating cost improvements to keep our pricing competitive.
Economic Challenges and Our Response
The manufacturing economy continues to face uncertainty. While we were optimistic about economic improvements, ongoing tariff discussions and recession concerns have caused hesitation in the market. This seems to have caused everyone to pause their plans, impacting manufacturing. Those of us in manufacturing are hopeful that this disruption will be short-lived, and business can get back to normal.
At ALMCO, we recognize the strain tariffs can place on material costs, but as an American-made manufacturer, we are less impacted than overseas competitors who face additional fees and delays. Our domestic production minimizes the cost impact of tariffs, and allows us to maintain more predictable lead times and consistently high product quality, giving our customers a competitive edge—even in volatile conditions.
For companies navigating tight budgets, we offer financing and refurbished equipment solutions, which provide a cost-effective way to meet production needs while optimizing existing assets.
Adapting to Workforce Transitions
This year marks the third year of high employee-owner retirements. Many long-term employees have reached retirement age and have retired, several of these employees with over 30 years of experience. While that represents a huge amount of experience lost, it also opens the door for fresh ideas to come into the company. “Happy Retirement” to those that have retired from ALMCO since my last business update.
Supporting Customers Through Workforce Changes
Beyond ALMCO, we’ve also observed higher turnover rates among our customers in the last few years. If you are now responsible for deburring, washing, or finishing of parts at your company, we encourage you to reach out to ALMCO for assistance. Our team can guide you on maximizing the performance of your ALMCO equipment, or develop a tailored process using your existing equipment. Of course, we are always happy to discuss new equipment solutions for your evolving production needs. We have an extensive process development lab, and we will develop a process for you at no cost if you purchase the equipment/supplies from ALMCO. You can connect with our team by visiting www.almco.com or calling us at 800-521-2740.
As summer approaches, I hope you get to spend time outdoors enjoying the weather!
Best Regards,
Tim Grahn
ALMCO General Manager