Highly specialized within individual segments but fragmented as a whole, the fabricated metal products manufacturing industry produces an array of goods for a variety of downstream uses. Driven largely by the needs of other industrial companies, demand is strongly linked to the economy and is susceptible to fluctuations. Profitability primarily depends on technical expertise and efficient manufacturing operations. The specialized nature of the industry and the need for many different products provide opportunities for companies of all sizes to contribute goods and services to the market and effectively compete.