The UK steel price forecast for 2025–2026 is a key concern for builders and fabricators as the market shifts after recent volatility. This overview explains the expected price trends and what buyers should prepare for. Steel prices in the UK are entering a period of moderate but steady movement, making 2025–2026 an important planning window for builders, fabricators, and procurement teams. After a volatile 2023–2024 shaped by energy fluctuations and supply chain challenges, the market is now stabilising — but several key drivers will continue to influence costs over the next 24 months.

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Key UK Steel Price Trends and Market Outlook for 2025–2026

Steel Market Snapshot (2024 Recap)

In 2024, UK steel prices saw moderate increases as energy costs settled and imports from Turkey and Asia increased competitiveness. Overall annual movement:

  • Merchant Bars: +4% to +7%
  • Coil Sheets: +5% to +8%
  • Structural Steel: Stable to +3%
  • Rebar: +2% to +5%

    This forms the baseline for 2025–2026 expectations.

    Price Outlook for 2025

    UK steel prices are expected to rise gradually due to stronger construction demand, global scrap trends, and steady energy costs.

    • Merchant Bars: +3% to +6%
    • Coil Sheets: +2% to +7%
    • Structural Steel: Stable to +4%
    • Rebar: +2% to +5%

      Import pressure — especially from Turkey and India — will help prevent sharp increases, but procurement teams should still expect gradual quarterly rises.

      Price Outlook for 2026

      2026 is forecast to be a more stable year. With freight rates falling and energy prices normalising, price volatility should ease.

      • Merchant Bars: +1% to +3%
      • Coil Sheets: Stable to +2%
      • Structural Steel: Stable
      • Rebar: +1% to +3%

        Better GBP performance and improved global supply chains will support predictable steel pricing across the UK market.

        Key Factors Shaping Prices

        • Energy Costs: Still a major influence on mill production costs.
        • Scrap Steel Prices: Particularly impactful for merchant bars and rebar.
        • Import Competition: Turkish and Asian mills continue to offer competitive pricing.
        • UK Construction Demand: Infrastructure and housing projects will support steady consumption.
        • Logistics: Reduced freight rates in 2025–2026 improve import affordability.

          Practical Advice for Steel Buyers

          • Secure contracts early in 2025 before seasonal increases.
          • Use imports strategically to lower overall material costs.
          • Place bulk orders for high-volume products like coil sheets and merchant bars.
          • Monitor scrap prices as early indicators of market shifts.
          • Work with flexible suppliers who offer stock, forward supply, and competitive origin options.

            How CoreMet Steel Helps

            CoreMet Steel supports UK builders, fabricators, and manufacturers with reliable supply of:

              Competitive pricing, strong Turkish partnerships, and consistent lead times ensure your projects stay on schedule and on budget.
              For additional global pricing data and long-term market trends, you can refer to the World Steel Association, which publishes up-to-date research and industry reports: https://worldsteel.org