By Rachael Pfenninger, director of strategic execution, AMBA At the beginning of last year, the tariffs that were in place – or were not – were the dominant topic of conversation for many American moldmakers and were driving many of AMBA’s lobbying efforts. The recent change in administration due to the US presidential election had driven market optimism for many industry … [Read more...] about Complex Mix of Opportunities and Obstacles Faces US Mold Builders in 2026
Benchmarking
Mold Builders Again Experience Wage Growth Slower than Inflation
By Andrew Carlsgaard, benchmarking and analytics director, AMBA The 2025 AMBA Wage & Salary Report continues to show a familiar trend that mirrors last year’s results: rising wages and salaries across the US mold building workforce, albeit at a slower pace than inflation and the US manufacturing industry. The survey results of 88 mold builders, representing nearly 3,500 … [Read more...] about Mold Builders Again Experience Wage Growth Slower than Inflation
Industry Advocacy Leads to Optimistic Conditions while Highlighting Challenge
By Rachael Pfenninger, director of strategic execution, AMBA US mold builders have faced turbulent business conditions over the last several months, from late 2024 into the first and second quarters of 2025. Despite this shifting political landscape, however, US mold builders are feeling largely optimistic as they see advocacy efforts, like those executed by the AMBA … [Read more...] about Industry Advocacy Leads to Optimistic Conditions while Highlighting Challenge
Healthcare and Benefits to Strain Industry Resources at Increased Rate in 2025
By Andrew Carlsgaard, analytics director, AMBA In the competitive and dynamic landscape for hiring and retaining skilled employees, US manufacturers, particularly the small- and medium-sized businesses, face significant and unique challenges when providing healthcare and other employee benefits. These challenges are intensified by industry-specific factors, such as an aging … [Read more...] about Healthcare and Benefits to Strain Industry Resources at Increased Rate in 2025
Uncertainty Weighs as US Mold Manufacturers Prepare for Changing Conditions
By Rachael Pfenninger, director of strategic execution, AMBA The year is 2025, and President Trump has ordered additional tariffs across the board on goods from Canada, Mexico and – most crucially – China. At the time of publication, only the additional 10% tariff had been placed on China, while Canadian and Mexican tariffs each are pending further negotiation. This … [Read more...] about Uncertainty Weighs as US Mold Manufacturers Prepare for Changing Conditions
Employee Engagement in US Moldmaking (and What it Means for Employee Retention)
By Rachael Pfenninger, director of strategic execution, AMBA In an era where employee retention has become increasingly challenging, particularly following the “Great Resignation” and fierce, domestic competition for labor, US moldmaking companies are seeking effective strategies to enhance employee satisfaction and engagement. This ultimately leads them to implement … [Read more...] about Employee Engagement in US Moldmaking (and What it Means for Employee Retention)