Pit & Quarry hosts Roundtable in Georgia

Inflation was a widely discussed topic at the 2022 Pit & Quarry Roundtable & Conference. Photo: P&Q Staff

The aggregate industry’s producers, manufacturers and others gathered this week at the 2022 Pit & Quarry Roundtable & Conference outside of Atlanta.

The event, which took place June 7-8, brought industry stakeholders together at Chateau Elan in Braselton, Georgia, to discuss topics such as aggregate demand, labor, the supply chain and inflation.

Wednesday morning’s sessions included a presentation by FMI Capital Advisors’ George Reddin, who offered an outlook for the construction materials market. Ogletree Deakins’ Margo Lopez, meanwhile, provided updates related to the Mine Safety & Health Administration.

Additionally, Newt Gingrich, former speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, paid Roundtable attendees a virtual visit, sharing his insights on infrastructure, the state of the supply chain and labor. Gingrich also made predictions for November’s upcoming midterm election.

During the Roundtable discussions, attendees addressed the state of the industry, equipment and technology trends, sustainability and more. And while producers seem to agree that demand for aggregates is high, headwinds such as inflation, supply chain disruptions and labor shortages continue to present challenges.

To conclude the event, Sara Feuling, senior director of construction at the Association of Equipment Manufacturers, offered a preview of ConExpo-Con/Agg 2023. Feuling detailed a number of changes attendees can expect at the upcoming trade show.

Additionally, Michele Stanley of the National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association (NSSGA) offered legislative and regulatory updates pertaining to the industry. Stanley, who serves NSSGA as vice president of government and regulatory affairs, touched on the disbursement of Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act funds, among other topics.