Stuart Kagan, co-founder of metals trading platform Buddy and a veteran of the scrap industry, has published a book examining the challenges facing scrap yard owners and operators as the sector undergoes increasing economic, regulatory and technological change.
‘Balls of Steel’ focuses on the practical aspects of running a scrap metal business, drawing on Kagan’s experience in the industry and stories from other scrap professionals. The book covers areas including customer relationships, cash flow, leadership, operational systems and the adoption of new technology.
Better use of data
Kagan argues that traditional industry knowledge and operational experience remain important, but that scrap businesses increasingly need to combine those strengths with better use of data, technology and strategic planning.
The book comes as metal recyclers face a range of challenges, including fluctuating commodity prices, tighter margins, labour shortages and increasing compliance requirements. At the same time, new technologies are beginning to affect how yards manage operations and make business decisions.
Podcast lessons
Kagan also draws on his podcast Born Scrappy, which features conversations with experienced figures from the scrap industry. The book expands on some of the lessons and experiences discussed on the podcast, including business setbacks, equipment investments, customer relationships and decisions made under pressure.
According to Kagan, the book is intended for scrap yard owners, operators, traders and other industry leaders looking at how their businesses can adapt to changing market conditions while maintaining the operational practices that have traditionally underpinned successful scrap businesses.
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