The global aluminium market is entering another period of disruption. Rising geopolitical tensions, renewed discussions around trade tariffs, volatile energy costs and ongoing pressure on raw material supply are converging at the same time. For food manufacturers, processors and packaging buyers, this uncertainty is being felt not just in headlines, but in day-to-day pricing, availability and planning.
Aluminium prices have continued to rise, driven by constrained supply, energy-intensive production and increased demand across multiple industries. Alongside this, Midwest (MW) premiums remain elevated, adding further pressure for buyers supplying into or operating within the US market. The result is a complex cost environment where forward planning has become increasingly difficult.
Tariffs, geopolitics and supply chain strain
The potential for further tariff changes—particularly around aluminium and aluminium-derived products—has reintroduced uncertainty for global buyers. While the situation continues to evolve, one thing is clear: businesses that rely heavily on long, fragile supply chains or single-source regions are the most exposed.
In contrast, suppliers with stable manufacturing bases, diversified sourcing strategies and strong international trade relationships are far better positioned to support customers through this volatility.
Why the UK remains a stable partner for the US
Against this backdrop, the UK continues to offer a comparatively stable and predictable environment for aluminium manufacturing and export. Long-standing trade relationships with the US, consistent regulatory frameworks and an absence of punitive aluminium tariffs between the two markets provide reassurance at a time when many routes feel uncertain.
For US customers, this stability matters. It enables clearer cost forecasting, reduced risk of sudden tariff shocks and confidence that supply will not be disrupted by rapidly shifting trade policies.
How Coppice supports customers in uncertain times
At Coppice, we have built our business around resilience, flexibility and long-term partnership—qualities that become even more important when markets are unsettled.
Our approach combines:
- High-speed, low-cost manufacturing designed to remain competitive even as raw material costs fluctuate
- Robust, proven supply chains built to withstand disruption and support continuity of supply
- Globally approved and accredited operations, giving customers confidence across international markets
- In-house tooling design and innovation centre, enabling rapid development and optimisation
- Capacity across both smooth wall and wrinkle wall containers, supporting a wide range of applications
- Co-manufacturing partnerships, adding further flexibility and scalability when demand shifts
Rather than reacting to uncertainty, we plan for it—investing in capability, capacity and collaboration so our customers are not left exposed.
Turning uncertainty into advantage
While volatility in the aluminium market is unlikely to disappear overnight, businesses can take control by choosing partners that offer transparency, stability and technical depth. UK manufacturing, backed by strong US trade relationships, provides a dependable alternative to higher-risk supply routes.
At Coppice, our role is simple: to help customers navigate uncertainty with confidence, ensuring supply security, consistent quality and the flexibility to adapt—whatever the market brings next.
In times of change, certainty comes from partnership, preparation and proven capability.
Navigating aluminium market volatility doesn’t have to be reactive. To explore stable, long-term supply options, connect with our team at sales@coppice.net