Tampa Steel Conference: Service centers optimistic for 2026

The final panel of last week’s Tampa Steel Conference brought together executives from three different service centers. Joining us on stage were Drew Gross, president and COO of Alliance Family of Companies, Rocky Christenberry, executive vice president of Priefert, and Gaurav Chhibbar, chief operating officer of Friedman Industries. The panel was moderated by Ethan Bernard, managing editor of Steel Market Update.

Panelists shared common views on the evolving market. All acknowledged that the past two years have been challenging. At the same time, each expressed cautious optimism for 2026, provided companies remain disciplined.

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.