The Fastening Industry in 2025: A Year in Review
As 2025 draws to a close, the fastening industry has seen significant shifts across materials, technology, and supply chains. With a global market now worth over £80–£85 billion, this year has been one of adaptation, innovation, and preparation for the future. For manufacturers, OEMs, and tooling specialists like Rivetwise, 2025 has reinforced the importance of reliability, efficiency, and sustainability in every fastener.
Key Trends Observed in 2025
1. EVs Continue to Reshape Fastening Needs
This year, electric vehicles have pushed fasteners into new territory. Lightweight aluminium and composite frames plus high-voltage battery housings required stronger, corrosion-resistant fasteners. Engineers have increasingly prioritised durability and precision showing that small components have a huge impact on overall vehicle safety and performance.
2. Renewables Drive High-Demand Projects
2025 saw rapid growth in solar, wind, and grid infrastructure. High-strength monobolts, structural rivets, and robust coatings were in demand for projects built to last decades, especially in harsh winter conditions across the UK and Europe. Fastener choice has become central to the success of these long-term energy investments.
3. Supply Chains Were Tested and Evolved
This year reinforced the lessons of recent disruptions. Reshoring and nearshoring became standard strategies for many manufacturers. Companies with VMI, local warehousing, and fast delivery strengthened their market position showing that smart supply-chain management is now as important as product quality.
4. Automation and Digital Tools Take Hold
Robotics, digital torque measurement, barcode tracking, and vision inspection have become everyday tools in fastener production. 2025 highlighted the efficiency gains and quality improvements that automation and Industry 4.0 technologies can deliver.
5. Sustainability Became Non-Negotiable
Environmental responsibility was no longer optional this year. Fasteners made from low-carbon materials, longer-lasting coatings, and recyclable metals were in high demand. OEMs and manufacturers alike made sustainability a key factor in procurement and product design.
Reflections for Engineers, Buyers and Manufacturers
For Engineers
This year reinforced the importance of selecting fasteners and tools that perform in extreme conditions and across evolving vehicle platforms.
For Procurement
2025 proved that total cost of ownership is more valuable than upfront savings. Reliability, corrosion resistance, and tool longevity have become key metrics in supplier selection.
For Manufacturers and Tool Specialists
Automation, high-precision tooling, and local stock buffers proved essential for meeting demand efficiently. Offering engineering guidance and sustainable materials helped strengthen client trust and repeat business.
Looking Back on 2025 and Beyond
2025 has been a year of adaptation, resilience, and innovation in the fastening industry. The trends we have seen, EV-driven materials, renewable energy demand, smarter supply chains, automation, and sustainability, have reshaped the market landscape. Fasteners may be small, but they remain central to the strength, safety, and efficiency of everything from EVs to renewable infrastructure.
For companies like Rivetwise, 2025 has been a reminder that combining reliable tools, innovative materials, and smart supply solutions is the key to staying ahead in a changing world.
