2025 YEAR IN REVIEW AT SMM: A TRANSFORMATIVE YEAR FOR SPECIAL METRIC MATERIALS
As 2025 draws to a close, we’re taking a moment to reflect on what has been a truly transformative year for Special Metric Materials (SMM). From moving into our brand-new facility, to expanding our team and developing deeper relationships with customers across the UK, this year has been defined by growth, ambition and forward momentum.
Below, we look back at the milestones that shaped our year, and ahead to why 2026 is set to be even bigger.
A New Facility
One of the biggest highlights of 2025 was our move into our new purpose-built facility in Manchester. This move marked an enormous leap forward in our operational capacity, allowing us to double the space we previously had and position ourselves for long-term growth.
The state-of-the-art 50,000 sq ft warehouse significantly increased our storage capabilities, enabling us to hold a wider and deeper range of Metric and ISO stainless-steel pipes, tubes, fittings and flanges. More importantly, this expansion has allowed us to respond faster, offer more product lines from stock, and support customers with improved flexibility.
The warehouse has been designed to optimise our logistics operations, creating efficiencies that directly benefit our customers, from shorter lead times to smoother order processing. Alongside the warehouse expansion, the office environment has also been modernised to support collaboration and offer a more dynamic space for the team.
This new facility isn’t just a building; it’s a clear statement of intent. It reflects our long-term vision to grow, innovate and strengthen our position as a leading supplier in the UK’s stainless-steel piping industry.
Growing Our Team: Welcoming New Talent
Alongside our physical expansion, 2025 was also a significant year for strengthening the SMM team.
One of the most exciting additions was the appointment of Lee White as our new Product Development Manager. Lee brings a wealth of experience and a real passion for innovation. Since joining, he has already played a key role in exploring new product lines and identifying opportunities to enhance the range we offer.
His arrival has not only boosted our technical capabilities but also reinforced our commitment to continuous improvement. Lee’s focus on product innovation will be a major driver in expanding our stock range even further in 2026 and beyond.
We also welcomed Dan, our new Warehouse Manager, who has been instrumental in helping us transition smoothly into the new facility. With increased stock levels and a bigger operational footprint, Dan’s leadership has been crucial in ensuring the warehouse runs efficiently and that we maintain the high service levels our customers depend on.
Together, our growing team reflects the heart of SMM: knowledgeable, customer-focused and passionate about delivering excellence.
Expanding Stock Ranges and Building New Client Relationships
With more space and new capabilities, 2025 saw us significantly broaden our stock range. We now hold a more comprehensive selection of Metric and ISO stainless-steel tubing, piping, fittings and flanges, ensuring even more products are available off-the-shelf.
This expanded stockholding has enabled us to support a wider variety of industries, including:
* Water treatment
* Food and beverage production
* Chemical processing
* Renewable energy
* Building services
* General process manufacturing
The increased variety and volume of stock mean we can respond rapidly to urgent requirements while also supporting longer-term project planning, a combination that has helped us secure new relationships with clients nationwide.
In fact, one of the most rewarding aspects of 2025 has been the number of new partnerships we’ve formed. Many clients have chosen SMM as their preferred supplier due to our reliability, flexibility and service-focused approach. Equally, long-standing customers have continued to place their trust in us, enabling even deeper collaboration across complex or time-sensitive projects.
As our stock, capabilities and expertise grow, so does our ability to deliver tailored solutions, something we’re incredibly proud of.
Looking Ahead: Big Things Are Coming in 2026
If 2025 was a year of building foundations, 2026 will be a year of building upon them.
With our new facility fully operational, an expanded team in place and a growing client base, we are perfectly positioned to push ahead with new product developments, enhanced stock ranges and further improvements across our services.
Our customers can expect:
* Even wider product availability
* Reduced lead times
* Continued investment in innovation
* A focus on developing bespoke and specialist solutions
* A growing team committed to exceptional customer service
We have some exciting announcements already in the pipeline, so watch this space. 2026 is shaping up to be a year of major growth and new opportunities for Special Metric Materials.
Thank You for Being Part of Our Journey
As we wrap up 2025, we want to extend a sincere thank you to everyone who has contributed to this year’s success – our team, customers, partners and suppliers.
Your support and collaboration have been invaluable, and we look forward to continuing this journey with you in the months and years ahead.
Planning Your 2026 Projects? Let’s Talk
If you’re preparing for next year’s projects or need support with sourcing Metric and ISO stainless-steel piping products, our team is ready to help.
Get in touch with us today to discuss your requirements and see how Special Metric Materials can support your next steps.
