Giuseppe & F.lli Bonaiti S.r.l.: a snapshot of current steel market dynamics

In a time of significant economic and manufacturing instability, companies in the steel supply chain are required to navigate complex and constantly shifting dynamics. We discussed this with Mr. Mauro Cogliati, sales manager at Giuseppe e Fratelli Bonaiti S.r.l., a long-standing Italy-based company involved in the production of metal wire and wire rod, with a particular focus on fastener manufacturers.

The interview presents a realistic picture of the current market: uncertainty in planning, inconsistent orders, and a volatile price environment. Nonetheless, product availability, responsiveness, and attention to regulatory and environmental aspects remain the key strengths of Giuseppe e Fratelli Bonaiti S.r.l..

It is often said nowadays that businesses operate “day by day”: what is your personal take on this?

Today, customers tend to keep minimal stock and only purchase materials when they receive orders, which results in their production schedules becoming erratic. For us, it’s the opposite: we must have materials already in stock, otherwise we can’t even consider requests. It’s a delicate balance to maintain.

What is the current order situation compared to the beginning of the year?

Overall volumes haven’t changed much. However, the main issue is the lack of consistency: fixed and regular orders are rare and often subject to changes, cancellations, or postponements. It’s not the volumes that challenge us the most, but rather the inability to plan production consistently for any period of time.

How have raw material purchase prices evolved between Q2 and Q3?

Despite weak demand, prices have increased due to rising production costs. They have since partially dropped back, but the market remains unstable. This volatility causes additional strain: most suppliers now work with monthly or quarterly pricing, depending on the steel type.

Which sectors does your production primarily serve? Are there any particularly affected by the economic situation?

We mainly supply fastener and bolt manufacturers, who in turn serve various sectors: automotive, mechanical, and household appliances. The automotive sector is one of the hardest hit. On top of that, tariffs are further complicating the situation.

Are you particularly impacted by foreign competition? In which fields or markets?

Yes, we feel the pressure both internationally—especially from Spain and Turkey—and locally. In some cases, market conditions arise that are not entirely transparent or consistent with fair competition.

Does your industry require sustainability-related certifications? Do your clients explicitly ask for this information?

At the moment, formal certifications are not required, but there is an increasing request for declarations on environmental aspects, such as the use of recycled material, the absence of banned substances, or compliance with CBAM regulations.

We thank Mr. Mauro Cogliati for openly sharing a meaningful snapshot of the current market dynamics at Giuseppe e Fratelli Bonaiti S.r.l.. We invite readers to visit the online booth at Expometals.net, where they can explore in detail the range of products and sectors served.