Why Precast Concrete is Having a Renaissance – And How to Prepare

With a surge in demand in recent years, the U.S. precast concrete market is expected to see a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.7% from 2025 through 2035, according to Globe Newswire. 

It is no surprise that the opportunity for such robust growth lies within this construction product, given the extensive benefits and efficiencies it provides the industry and the market factors driving the demand.

Construction & Infrastructure

“The nature, size, and scope of the projects that are now coming out have just created a much higher demand for precast,” states Shay Evans, Business Development Manager at JLG Industries.

The construction industry has seen significant growth in new projects overall, especially for commercial buildings. The Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act has made funding available for large-scale infrastructure projects.

“The hottest thing in construction right now is data centers,” adds Craig Edwards, Vice President of Strategic Accounts at JLG. “They’re growing even faster than distribution centers and are primed for precast concrete.” 

Work-Zone Safety & Improved Quality Control

Because precast concrete molds are produced in a factory-controlled environment, there is significantly less need for labor in transporting heavy concrete blocks and materials to the job site.

“Whenever you can reduce manpower, you can reduce the risk of injury,” Evans adds.

That factory production also allows for a significant improvement in quality control and precision in the manufacturing of precast components needed for each individual project.

Efficiency & Cost Savings

In addition to the cost-savings on reduced labor in transporting materials, precast concrete also provides savings by allowing for simultaneous construction - on-site development can happen while the precast molds are being created, allowing for improved speed in the overall completion of a project.

Sustainability & Environmental Conditions

The cost-saving benefits of precast concrete extend to its overall sustainability. It is less affected by adverse environmental conditions and, therefore, incurs minimal expected maintenance costs. Precast concrete is also durable, highly resistant to harsh weather, and can effectively utilize recycled materials in its formula.

So, how can a construction company best prepare to meet the rise in demand and fully capitalize on the expected growth in precast concrete?

Conduct a local assessment of the precast concrete needs in their service area.
Analyze local competitors to understand market gaps and pricing strategies and research emerging precast design and application trends.

Establish strong relationships with contractors and suppliers.
Focus on building relationships with key providers to help guarantee consistent quality and availability of raw materials. Work with those partners to set contingency plans to manage possible supply chain disruptions.

Focus on Production Capacity Building.

Invest in various precast molds (in differing sizes and designs), high-quality equipment, adequate storage space, and technological support (automation, CAD).

JLG, the world’s leading manufacturer of access equipment, is prepared to meet the changing needs and expectations of the expanding construction industry, including precast concrete.

“[Customers need] 60-80 foot telescopic booms,” adds Edwards. “That’s the heartbeat of the JLG product line, and the products used most often [in precast concrete work]. Our high-capacity telehandlers fit that [need] as well.”

From engine-powered, electric, or hybrid boom lifts to dozens of telehandler models, JLG’s products are reliable, industry-respected, and constantly evolving to improve economies of scale for our customers.

For more information on how JLG products can support your company’s work in precast concrete production, visit https://www.jlg.com/en/about-jlg/contact-us.