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    Analysis

    September 18, 2025

    SMU Survey: Mills slightly less negotiable on spot pricing

    Written by Brett Linton

    Sheet and plate buyers say mills remain open to negotiating spot prices this week, though less so than in recent weeks, according to SMU’s latest market survey.

    Every other week, SMU polls thousands of buyers asking if domestic mills are negotiable on new spot order pricing. This week, 81% of respondents said mills were willing to talk price to secure an order. This is down 13 points from our previous survey and the lowest rate seen since June (Figure 1).

    Brett Linton

    Brett Linton is a digital operations analyst for Steel Market Update, where he began his career. Linton has been in the steel industry since 2010. He has held roles as a category manager and strategic insights director at Reibus before returning to SMU in 2024. He is a graduate of The University of North Georgia with a degree in Finance and Accounting. Brett can be reached at brett@steelmarketupdate.com or 724-314-0179.

    Read more from Brett Linton

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